Recent fi ndings in the emerging fi eld of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance suggest that the lifestyle choices and experiences of an individual have biological implications for offspring not yet conceived. Studies show that diet, drugs, and even social experiences can lead to life-long changes in gene expression. Some changes in gene expression are passed down to future generations. The...

We now take for granted that despite the disproportionate contribution of females to initial growth of their progeny, there is little or no asymmetry in the contribution of males and females to the eventual character of their shared offspring. In fact, this key insight was only established towards the end of the eighteenth century by Joseph Koelreuter's pioneering plant breeding experiments. If...

A 10-year-old, clinically healthy, male dromedary camel had presented a history of progressive unilateral testicular enlargement over the past 5 years. The animal had mated with 32 females during that period; all had conceived. The sex ratio of his offspring was one male to 31 females. Ultrasound examination of the right testicle revealed a diffusely heterogeneous parenchyma with no identifiabl...

Recent data in humans and animals suggest that assisted reproductive technology (ART) might affect the epigenetics of early embryogenesis and might cause birth defects. We report the first evidence, to our knowledge, that ART is associated with a human overgrowth syndrome-namely, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS). In a prospective study, the prevalence of ART was 4.6% (3 of 65), versus the back...

Abstract Background Goat milk is very similar to human in terms of its abundant nutrients and ease digestion. To derive greater economic benefit, farmers require more female offspring (does); however, the buck-to-doe sex ratio approximately 50%. At present, artificial insemination after separation X/Y sperm using flow cytometry primary means controlling livestock offspring. However, has not bee...

It is predictable that the precipitous decline in the number of available children for adoption will find many Illinois couples pursuing the surrogate route, as has happened in other states. The current uncertain status of Illinois law regarding surrogate contracts demands legislative focus and direction. To prevent protracted litigation as in other jurisdictions and to prevent injustices to th...