Developing a novel Drosophila model of Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) based on TDP-43 and C9(G4C2)108

Abstract

The aim of the investigation is to develop a novel fly model of FTD by assessing shortterm and long-term memory deficits resulting from overexpression of TDP-43 or C9 G4C2108X expansion in D. melanogaster mushroom body neurons. A behavioral assay measuring egg laying resulting from acute exposure to endoparasitoid wasps was performed with both TDPexpressing flies and C9 G4C2 108X expressing flies. The w1118 control shows a stronger reduction in oviposition compared to TDP-expressing flies, while the Oregon-R WT control shows a reduction in oviposition compared to C9 G4C2 108X flies which do not exhibit a reduction. These results suggest the behavioral assay is a viable tool for measuring short-term memory deficits in Drosophila, but must be further optimized to properly assess effects on longterm memory.