Multistep evolution of Drosphilia pigment characters

描述（由申请人提供）：形态的进化是多细胞生命中最令人敬畏的方面之一。从大自然中的各种颜色到灵长类动物给人类带来的变化，我们每天都面临着它的后果。一个特别重要的问题是如何修改遗传程序的多个组成部分以创造一个新的性状。果蝇翅膀的图案化色素提供了一个特殊的机会来剖析复杂性状起源中多基因网络的进化。该提案的目的是确定参与黑色素合成途径的基因，这些基因有助于新色素模式的进化，并了解它们是如何被吸收的。一旦确定，将探索每个基因如何获得新活性的分子基础。将分析一组潜在基因的与图案化区域相关的表达。使用果蝇的转基因，每个阳性候选者的新活性的基础将被定义。最后，将通过在翅膀未形成图案的物种中异位表达来测试所鉴定的组分的充分性。

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The evolution of form is one of the most awe-inspiring aspects of multicellular life. From the vast array of colors in nature to the changes that brought about the human race from primates, we are confronted with its aftereffects on a daily basis. A particularly important question is how the multiple components of a genetic program are modified to create a new trait. The patterned pigmentation of Drosophila wings presents an exceptional opportunity to dissect the evolution of multigene networks in the origin of complex traits. The aim of this proposal is to identify genes involved in the melanin synthesis pathway which contribute to the evolution of new pigment patterns, and understand how they were co-opted. Once identified, the molecular underpinnings of how each gene has attained a new activity will be explored. A panel of potential genes will be analyzed for expression associated with patterned areas. Using transgenesis of Drosophila melanogaster, the basis of each positive candidate's new activity will be defined. Finally, the sufficiency of identified components will be tested by ectopic expression in a species whose wings are unpatterned.