Yes, male and female DNA is different, primarily due to the sex chromosomes.
Here's a breakdown:
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Sex Chromosomes: The fundamental difference lies in the sex chromosomes. Females typically have two X chromosomes (XX), while males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
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Y Chromosome: The Y chromosome is significantly smaller than the X chromosome and contains genes that determine maleness. The SRY gene (Sex-determining Region Y) on the Y chromosome is the master switch that initiates male development.
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Genes and Traits: These chromosomal differences result in genetic variations that contribute to different biological traits and characteristics between males and females.
In essence, while males and females share a vast majority of their DNA, the presence or absence of the Y chromosome and the differing number of X chromosomes is what makes their DNA distinct.