The eyes of Drosophila develop from imaginal discs, groups of cells set aside in the fly embryo that differentiate into the adult structures during the pupal stage. Despite their importance in nature, eyes are dispensable for fruit-fly life in the laboratory.

Devise a genetic screen to identify genes directing development of the fly eye.

Key Concepts

Imaginal Discs

Imaginal discs are clusters of undifferentiated cells in the larval stage of Drosophila that later develop into adult structures, including the eyes. These discs are crucial for understanding how specific genes influence the formation of complex organs during metamorphosis, as they serve as the precursors to adult tissues.

Genetic Screening

Genetic screening is a method used to identify and isolate specific genes associated with particular traits or developmental processes. In the context of Drosophila, this involves mutating or manipulating genes and observing the resulting phenotypes, which helps pinpoint the genetic factors that control eye development.

Pupal Stage Development

The pupal stage is a critical phase in the life cycle of Drosophila where significant morphological changes occur, transforming the larva into an adult fly. Understanding this stage is essential for identifying the timing and regulation of gene expression that directs the development of the eye and other structures during this metamorphosis.