A Simple Way to Measure Alterations in Reward-seeking Behavior Using <em>Drosophila melanogaster</em>

• DOI: 10.3791/54910
• Publication Date: 2016-12-16T01:15:17Z
• Authors: Shir Zer; Julia Ryvkin; Harel J. Wilner; Hila Zak; Anat Shmueli; Galit Shohat-Ophir
• Keywords: Proxy (statistics); Melanogaster

We describe a protocol for measuring ethanol self-administration in fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) as proxy changes reward states. demonstrate simple way to tap into the fly system, modify experiences related natural reward, and use voluntary consumption measure The approach serves relevant tool study neurons genes that play role experience-mediated of internal state. is composed two discrete parts: exposing rewarding nonrewarding experiences, assaying motivation obtain drug reward. parts can be used independently induce modulation experience an initial step further downstream assays or independent two-choice feeding assay, respectively. does not require complicated setup therefore applied any laboratory with basic culture tools.