Abstract
ABSTRACT Epigenetics refers to the study of heritable phenotypic changes without alterations in the DNA sequence. Advanced studies in epigenetic molecular mechanisms and their biological functions have relied on various model systems including bacteria, fungi, plants, insects, and mammals. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster has been an established model organism in the study of genetics and developmental biology. Many regulatory pathways are conserved in Drosophila compared to mammals, rendering it a powerful model to study epigenetic mechanisms. In this review, we outline the various epigenetic mechanisms and their importance in Drosophila chiefly focussing on the predominant epigenetic variations such as DNA methylation, histone modifications like H3K18 acetylation, H3K27 and H4K20 methylation, H3S10 phosphorylation, H2K118 ubiquitylation, H4 sumoylation, RNA associated silencing, polycomb proteins, PEV (position effect variegation), TPE (Telomeric position effect), and dosage compensation. All these types of epigenetic mechanisms can be studied precisely in Drosophila by inducing various mutations in the genome. Advanced studies in Drosophila epigenetics helps to understand genomic imprinting, neurological memory, circadian rhythms, aging, and carcinogenesis.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
