9505535 Kambysellis Dr. Kambyselis requests funds for a small Grant for Exploratory Research (SGER). The project aims to develop an experimental methodology whereby specific genes can be transferred from the genome of one Drosophila species into another, without the use of genetic markers in the recipient species as traditionally required for such genetic manipulations. Whereas there is a vast array of genetic mutants available for the species Drosophila melanogaster, most other Drosophila species of interest to evolutionary and developmental biologist lack available mutants, limiting their genetic analysis. To rectify this situation and facilitate analysis of gene expression and the evolution of gene regulation in the endemic Hawaiian Drosophila and other groups, novel vectors using as markers neomycin resistance or the green fluorescent protein will be developed to establish a transformation system applicable to any Drosophila species. The successful development of this methodology will have broad application, facilitating genetic analyses of basic phenomena such as behavior, evolution, and the role of pattern formation is development, as examples. Even wider application may ensure if the general approach of transgenic insect formation can subsequently be extended to insects of economic importance, enabling novel approaches to agricultural problems.
