Drosophila melanogaster as a physiologically relevant invertebrate teaching model system of complex neurological disease.

In response to financial, logistical, and ethical pressures, universities are exploring innovative methods for teaching physiology practicals using animal models. This study presents a laboratory activity employing Drosophila melanogaster as a model for neurological disease, leveraging its historical utility in genetic and physiological research. As invertebrates, D. melanogaster are not subject to the Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 in the United Kingdom, making them suitable for large class teaching. The activity aims to enhance students' molecular skills and understanding of genotype-phenotype linkages through hands-on experiments. Students conduct DNA extraction, PCR, and restriction digestion, followed by behavioural assays to assess motor function. Results demonstrate consistent molecular outcomes and significant differences in climbing ability between wild-type and mutant flies, mirroring human multiple neurological disease symptoms. The practical encourages inquiry-based learning, allowing students to design multi-stage experiments and analyse complex data. This comprehensive approach not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also provides valuable insights into human disease mechanisms using invertebrate models. The methodology can be adapted for various educational levels and expanded to include more advanced techniques such as qPCR, fostering a deeper understanding of molecular biology and neurophysiology.