Akshita Anand

Protein Impact on Metabolism in Drosophila with common mutations

Started Feb. 27, 2026

Abstract or project description

this project centers around evaluating protein as a driver for metabolic differences. The model of drosophila with multiple common mutations (dumpy and vestigial wings) has been associated with metabolic differences or impact on metabolic genes. Protein metabolism in drosophila has also been identified to include several of these genes. When given high/low/base line protein diets compared to wild type, we will be able to determine differences in metabolism from a body perspective and it's impact on lifecycle by measuring dry and wet weight, length of wings and body, excrement, and progeny.