Drosophila melanogaster: a simple system for understanding complexity

Dis Model Mech. 2019 Sep 27;12(10):dmm041871. doi: 10.1242/dmm.041871.

Abstract

Understanding human gene function is fundamental to understanding and treating diseases. Research using the model organism Drosophila melanogaster benefits from a wealth of molecular genetic resources and information useful for efficient in vivo experimentation. Moreover, Drosophila offers a balance as a relatively simple organism that nonetheless exhibits complex multicellular activities. Recent examples demonstrate the power and continued promise of Drosophila research to further our understanding of conserved gene functions.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drosophila melanogaster / physiology*
  • Female
  • Male
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Organogenesis
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Sugars / metabolism
  • Water

Substances

  • Sugars
  • Water