Characterization of the Y chromosome through the amplification of novel genes of Bactrocera dorsalis

Many insect species are of interest for genetic studies as either model organisms or because they are pest species that may carry diseases or cause economic damage.  This includes Drosophila melanogaster, which has long been a model organism for genetic studies.  This study focuses on the structure and function of the Y chromosome in insect species,         and in particular the Y chromosome of one pest species known as the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. 

The Drosophila Y chromosome is different from others in that it mainly consists of genes that code for male fertility.  In contrast, evidence shows that in other insect species such as Ceratitis capitata and Bactrocera oleae, the Y-chromosome contains genes that code for male sex determination.

The Y chromosome of B. dorsalis has not been extensively studied, and this characterization may be helpful for a wide range of comparisons with other species.   This may include the concept of DNA barcoding as it is used to classify organisms based on DNA sequence variants.   This research project is aimed at characterization of the Y chromosome of B. dorsalis both for identifying any genes found on this chromosome and for providing a clearer framework for taxonomic classification of B. dorsalis in relation other insect species. This will be done through analysis and amplification of novel sequences to find a distinct pattern for male B. dorsalis individuals. Another application is the contribution this information could make to the further characterization of the entire B. dorsalis genome.