Linking Genotype to Phenotype in Drosophila melanogaster: PCR Genotyping the White-one Eye Mutation

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2011, Volume 32

Oney P. Smith & Kathy F. Falkenstein

Abstract

This lab exercise adds a molecular genetics component to a traditional undergraduate lab that investigates eye color inheritance in Drosophila melanogaster. This two-week activity is based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and is used to DNA fingerprint (genotype) wild-type (red-eyed) and mutant (white-eyed) flies. The use of this geno-typing exercise as a companion activity to a traditional Drosophila investigation provides students "hands-on" experience establishing the link between genotype and phenotype. In addition, this lab-based activity introduces students to common techniques used in molecular genetics, including the extraction of DNA, PCR, and agarose gel electrophoresis.

Keywords:  Drosophila, PCR, electrophoresis, phenotype, genotyping, eye color, wild-type, white-one mutation

Dalhousie University (2010)