| Research utilizing the Drosophila model system over the past century has led to insights into many different areas of biology ranging from animal development and evolution to human hereditary diseases. To further our understanding of developmental biology, particularly the genetic processes necessary for the specification, patterning, differentiation, and function of an appendage, I used the Drosophila antenna and leg as models for scientific investigation. In the course of this work, I have uncovered details of developmental genetics that may help to reshape our view of the genetic mechanisms of tissue specification and patterning. Despite the many morphological differences between vertebrates and insects, I reveal some striking genetic and functional similarities between the Drosophila antenna and vertebrate ear. |
