Topology of the caudal fat body of the tumor w mutant of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

Hereditary melanotic tumors in the tumor w strain of Drosophila melanogaster are known to involve encapsulation of the caudal fat body by the larval hemocytes. The encapsulated masses are subsequently melanized. The present study shows that the chain of events preceding encapsulation includes disintegration of the basement membrane of the caudal fat body and the appearance of particulate materials between and around the dissociating fat cells.