Premium
Nutrient control of gene expression in Drosophila : microarray analysis of starvation and sugar‐dependent response
Author(s) -
Zinke Ingo,
Schütz Christina S.,
Katzenberger Jörg D.,
Bauer Matthias,
Pankratz Michael J.
Publication year - 2002
Publication title -
the embo journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 7.484
H-Index - 392
eISSN - 1460-2075
pISSN - 0261-4189
DOI - 10.1093/emboj/cdf600
Subject(s) - gene , biology , dna microarray , nutrient sensing , downregulation and upregulation , sugar , microarray analysis techniques , gene expression , microarray , microbiology and biotechnology , genetics , biochemistry , signal transduction
We have identified genes regulated by starvation and sugar signals in Drosophila larvae using whole‐genome microarrays. Based on expression profiles in the two nutrient conditions, they were organized into different categories that reflect distinct physiological pathways mediating sugar and fat metabolism, and cell growth. In the category of genes regulated in sugar‐fed, but not in starved, animals, there is an upregulation of genes encoding key enzymes of the fat biosynthesis pathway and a downregulation of genes encoding lipases. The highest and earliest activated gene upon sugar ingestion is sugarbabe , a zinc finger protein that is induced in the gut and the fat body. Identification of potential targets using microarrays suggests that sugarbabe functions to repress genes involved in dietary fat breakdown and absorption. The current analysis provides a basis for studying the genetic mechanisms underlying nutrient signalling.