Gene Expression During Drosophila Wing Morphogenesis and Differentiation

The study on Drosophila wing morphogenesis and differentiation identified significant changes in gene expression during wing development, with 2,152 genes showing notable expression changes. Researchers used Affymetrix Drosophila gene chips and validated findings through real-time PCR. Key genes such as miniature, dusky, inturned, kermit, and traf1 were linked to wing morphology and planar polarity. Mutations in genes like Ddc, HR46, non-stop, and Uch-L3 resulted in specific phenotypes, including pigmentation defects, hair loss, and structural anomalies. The study underscored the importance of these genes in wing morphogenesis and suggested potential targets for insecticides due to the involvement of the ubiquitin pathway in hair initiation.