Exploring the Epigenetic Mechanisms of D. melanogaster: How a Methyl-Rich Diet Alters Protein Expression

Overview

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mechanism by which an organism’s gene expression is altered through the addition of methyl groups onto specific areas of DNA known as CpG islands. Drosophila melanogaster, a type of fruit fly, only methylates about 10% of its CpG islands, a drastically lower percentage than humans, who methylate about 70-80%. This study sought to investigate whether it is possible to increase DNA methylation in D. melanogaster through feeding them a methyl-rich diet, and if so, would its effect on gene regulation increase lifespan. Six supplements were added to the flies’ diets, chosen based on previous success in increasing DNA methylation in mice: zinc, l-methionine, choline, betaine, folate, and vitamin B12, which were dosed according to the recommended concentrations for Drosophila. The flies were housed in plastic vials containing 1.5 grams of medium, mixed with 6.5 grams of deionized water and a dosage of the supplements. The flies were observed for any changes in lifespan for a period of several weeks before a Laemmli protein extraction was done. A protein gel did show noticeable differences between the control and experimental groups, which may have been a result of changes in DNA methylation. However, further analysis into the flies’ genomes will be required to confirm this relationship.

Competition history

• CSEF 2026 Zoology (Senior Division) · Entry S-20-18

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