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Mutability studies in two Drosophila melanogaster isogenic stocks, endemic for C picornavirus and virus-free

M D Golubovsky, N Plus

    Mutation Research
    |January 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Drosophila flies infected with viruses show significantly fewer lethal mutations. Viral infections in Drosophila impact mutation rates differently between males and females.

    Area of Science:

    • * Genetics and evolutionary biology
    • * Insect virology and population genetics

    Background:

    • * Drosophila melanogaster is a key model organism for genetic studies.
    • * Viral infections can potentially influence host genetic stability and mutation rates.
    • * Understanding mutation drivers is crucial for population genetics.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • * To investigate the effect of Deformed wing virus (DCV) on mutation rates in Drosophila.
    • * To compare mutation rates between virus-free and virus-infected Drosophila.
    • * To analyze sex-specific differences in mutation rates under viral infection.

    Main Methods:

    • * Generation of virus-free Drosophila melanogaster stocks via egg disinfection.
    • * Comparison of lethal mutation frequencies on X and autosomes between healthy and DCV-infected flies.
    • * Sex-specific analysis of mutation rates in infected male and female Drosophila.

    Main Results:

    • * Virus-free flies exhibited a 3-fold reduction in lethal X-chromosome mutations compared to diseased flies.
    • * Infected male Drosophila showed 2-3 times lower mutability on X and 2nd chromosomes than infected females.
    • * Natural Drosophila viruses contribute to the mutation rate in wild populations.

    Conclusions:

    • * Viral infections, such as DCV, can suppress mutation rates in Drosophila.
    • * Sex-specific differences in mutability exist in virus-infected Drosophila.
    • * Endogenous viruses are a factor influencing genetic variation in natural Drosophila populations.

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