A toolbox to study metabolic status of Drosophila melanogaster larvae

Somatic energy reserves are essential for reproductive success and can govern the onset of sexual maturation. Here, we present a toolkit to analyze the metabolic status of Drosophila larvae using an optimized NMR profiling assay in dissected tissues or whole animals, as well as a complementary protocol for the dissection and staining of key organs in nutrient sensing. This toolkit will aid investigations into critical body weight signaling and how it is sensed for maturation commitment in Drosophila. For complete details on the use and execution of this profile, please refer to Juarez-Carreño et al. (2021).