How would you conduct a screen to identify recessive mutations in Drosophila that result in embryo lethality? How would you propagate the recessive mutant alleles?

Key Concepts

Recessive Mutations

Recessive mutations are genetic alterations that only manifest their effects when an individual has two copies of the mutant allele, one inherited from each parent. In Drosophila, these mutations can lead to specific phenotypic traits, such as embryo lethality, which can be identified through careful breeding and observation of offspring.

Drosophila Genetics

Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as the fruit fly, is a model organism in genetics due to its simple genome, short life cycle, and ease of manipulation. Researchers use Drosophila to study genetic mutations, inheritance patterns, and developmental processes, making it an ideal subject for screening recessive mutations that affect embryonic development.

Propagation of Mutant Alleles

To propagate recessive mutant alleles, one must perform controlled crosses between individuals carrying the mutant alleles. By mating heterozygous flies (carrying one mutant and one wild-type allele), researchers can produce offspring that segregate the alleles, allowing for the identification and maintenance of homozygous recessive mutants in subsequent generations.