BIOLOGICAL TESTING
Biological Testing in Fruit Flies
Why the fruit fly?
The fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster) has become extremely important in scientific research. It is not only the most well understood of all model organisms, but also low in cost to maintain, provide a rapid regeneration cycle and are supplied with excellent genetic tools. The genetic genome of D. melanogaster is very closely related to that of the human species, which makes this organism the most common model for research in genetics, disease, bioengineering, regenerative biology and so much more.
WPC Objective
Developing and maintaining a sustainable colony of Drosophila melanogaster and appropriate protocols for administering ginseng extracts and other botanical products to study their efficacy and safety.
Current research at WPC
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Longevity
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Reproduction studies
Parameters examined.
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Activity behaviour through negative geotaxis testing
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Mating behaviour
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egg and larva counts
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hatchability post-mating
Treatment with nutraceuticals
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Incorporation into food
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Dose response studies
Adult Female
D. melanogaster
Distinguishing features:
- larger in size
- more defined markings
- no sex combs on fore legs
Adult Male
D. melanogaster
Distinguishing features:
- smaller in size
- less defined markings
- no sex combs on fore legs
Microscope spread of D. melanogaster adults
Microscope image of D. melanogaster egg
Microscope image of D. melanogaster larva (red) and pupa (blue)
Dark pupa, circled in blue, are flies close to emergence as an adult fly
Complete life cycle of D. melanogaster
From the time the female lays the eggs to the emergence of an adult fruit fly takes about 10 days:
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egg to larva in 12 hrs
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larvae to pupa 4 days
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pupa to adult 5 days
