Male genetic, fundamentally, refers to the presence of a Y chromosome.
In humans, biological sex is largely determined by the sex chromosomes: X and Y. Typically:
- Females have two X chromosomes (XX).
- Males have one X and one Y chromosome (XY).
The Y chromosome contains genes, most notably the SRY gene (sex-determining region Y), that triggers the development of male characteristics during embryonic development. Without the Y chromosome, the default developmental pathway leads to female characteristics.
Therefore, the Y chromosome and the genes it carries are the primary genetic determinants of maleness. The Y chromosome is passed down from father to son. The X chromosome in males comes from their mother.
In summary, male genetic, in its simplest definition, is defined by the presence and influence of the Y chromosome.