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Updated: Aug 4, 2026

A Protocol for Genetic Induction and Visualization of Benign and Invasive Tumors in Cephalic Complexes of Drosophila melanogaster
07:23

A Protocol for Genetic Induction and Visualization of Benign and Invasive Tumors in Cephalic Complexes of Drosophila melanogaster

Published on: September 11, 2013

Mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and tumors in insects treated with oncogenic virus

W J Burdette, J S Yoon

    Science (New York, N.Y.)
    |January 20, 1967
    PubMed

    Insights

    Rous-sarcoma virus exposure in Drosophila melanogaster increased lethal mutations, visible mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, and tumors. Further research is needed to confirm potential effects on chromosomal puff size.

    Area of Science:

    • * Molecular biology
    • * Genetics
    • * Virology

    Background:

    • * The Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) is an oncogenic retrovirus.
    • * Understanding viral effects on host genetics is crucial for disease research.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • * To investigate the mutagenic and carcinogenic potential of Rous sarcoma virus in Drosophila melanogaster.
    • * To assess the impact of RSV on genetic stability and cellular processes.

    Main Methods:

    • * Drosophila melanogaster were exposed to medium containing Rous sarcoma virus.
    • * Incidence of mutations (lethal, visible, chromosomal), tumors, and other genetic alterations were quantified.
    • * Preliminary analysis of chromosomal puff sizes was conducted.

    Main Results:

    • * Significant increases in lethal mutations, visible mutations, chromosomal losses, and nondisjunctions were observed.
    • * Tumor incidence was elevated in the treated group.
    • * A small number of eye mosaics and translocations were noted.
    • * Preliminary data suggested a non-significant reduction in chromosomal puff size.

    Conclusions:

    • * Rous sarcoma virus exhibits mutagenic and potentially carcinogenic effects in Drosophila.
    • * RSV can induce various genetic instabilities, including chromosomal aberrations.
    • * Further investigation is required to validate the observed effects on chromosomal puff size and viral persistence.

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