Expression Level of sarah, a Homolog of DSCR1, Is Critical for Ovulation and Female Courtship Behavior in Drosophila melanogaster

• DOI: 10.1534/genetics.104.029934
• Publication Date: 2004-12-20T17:12:40Z
• Authors: Aki Ejima; Manabu Tsuda; Satomi Takeo; Kunimasa Ishii; Takashi Matsuo; Toshiro Aigaki
• Keywords: Courtship display

Abstract To better understand the genetic bases of postmating responses in Drosophila melanogaster females, we screened a collection P{GS} insertion lines and identified two insertions sarah (sra), whose misexpression nervous system induced high levels ovulation virgins. The gene sra encodes protein similar to human Down syndrome critical region 1 (DSCR1). phenotype was reproduced transgenic virgins expressing UAS-sra system. flies also extruded ovipositor toward courting males as seen wild-type mated supporting notion that behavioral patterns are physiologically coupled. were found be hypomorphic alleles with reduced expression levels. Females homozygous for these show: (1) spontaneous virgins, (2) sterility impaired meiotic progression, (3) compromised lower level, higher remating rate, shorter period restoration receptivity. No obvious defects observed males. is predominantly expressed oocytes, nurse cells, Taken together, results indicate level female courtship behavior, including their changes.