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Ageing, Drosophila melanogaster and Epigenetics
Mardani Abdul Halim1,2, Florence Hui Ping Tan1,2, Azali Azlan1,2
1USM-RIKEN International Centre for Ageing Science (URICAS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences : MJMS
|July 21, 2020
Summary
Epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, are linked to ageing. The fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is an ideal model for studying these age-related epigenetic processes due to its genetic amenability and gene homology with humans.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Ageing involves the accumulation of cellular stresses, leading to physiological imbalance and death.
- Epigenetics, encompassing DNA methylation and histone modifications, significantly contributes to understanding ageing.
- Epigenetic alterations are key factors in the ageing process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge on ageing and epigenetic processes.
- To highlight the role of Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism for ageing research.
- To explore the utility of Drosophila in studying epigenetics and ageing.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on ageing and epigenetics.
- Analysis of Drosophila melanogaster's suitability as a model organism.
- Comparison of Drosophila melanogaster's genetic makeup to human genes.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation and histone modification are associated with ageing.
- Drosophila melanogaster shares significant gene homology with humans (over 50% of genes).
- Drosophila melanogaster is genetically amenable, making it a valuable model for ageing studies.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic changes are integral to the ageing process.
- Drosophila melanogaster offers significant advantages for studying the molecular mechanisms of ageing.
- Further research utilizing Drosophila melanogaster can advance our understanding of age-related epigenetic modifications.
