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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2022.10.30.514414

Robust expression of transgenes in Drosophila melanogaster

Lidsky, P. V.·Dmitriev, S. E.·Andino, R.
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Abstract

Drosophila is a classic experimental system used in fundamental and biopharmaceutical research. Manipulating gene expression in the larvae and adult flies can facilitate basic and translational studies. Here we report a method for robust transgene overexpression in Drosophila melanogaster. This approach is compatible with the UAS/Gal4 gene expression system. The improved expression involves a gene expression cassette that prevents transgenic mRNA transcript degradation by the nonsense-mediated RNA decay pathway. The protection is mediated by CrPV and DCV IRES sequences that apparently encode cryptic polyadenylation sites and NMD inhibitors. Stabilization of the transgene mRNA results in a >40-fold increase in its levels.

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Lidsky, P. V., Dmitriev, S. E., Andino, R.. 2022-10-31. Robust expression of transgenes in Drosophila melanogaster. https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.10.30.514414

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