Protocol for studying microbiome impact on host energy and reproduction in Drosophila

Drosophila gut microbiome in flies has been shown to have a systemic influence on energy production by the host and the energetic investment in growth and reproduction. Here we describe a protocol for studying the mechanisms responsible for this remote regulation by gut bacteria. This protocol enables whole-body and ovary-specific quantification of energy-storing molecules as well as identification of host metabolites and pathways that are regulated by gut microbiome-derived factors. Similar procedures are applicable to additional treatments and genetic manipulations. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Gnainsky et al. (2021).