What Fruit Flies Taught Us About Human Biology

Fruit flies, despite their simplicity, have been pivotal in genetic research due to their genetic similarities with humans. They have contributed to major discoveries in inheritance, development, and disease research. Their ease of genetic modification and short life cycles make them ideal for laboratory studies. Historical figures like Thomas Hunt Morgan and Hermann Muller made groundbreaking discoveries using fruit flies, leading to Nobel Prizes. Today, fruit flies continue to aid in understanding complex biological processes and diseases, including cancer and sleep, highlighting their ongoing relevance in biomedical research.

What are some reasons why fruit flies are commonly used in research?

How did Thomas Hunt Morgan contribute to our understanding of genetics?

What implications did Hermann Muller's discoveries have on our understanding of genetic mutations?

In what ways have fruit flies contributed to cancer research?

What insights have researchers gained about sleep from studying fruit flies?