Evaluate Neuroprotective Chemicals in Drosophila Models of Parkinson's Disease
The Drosophila model of Parkinson's disease has been invaluable for dissecting the molecular and cellular mechanism of the disease.To evaluate the possibility of utilizing Drosophila model in drug screening,two strains based on DJ 1A and PINK1 gene interference were constructed,and chemical molecules with anti oxidant and anti inflammatory property such as minocycline and coenzyme Q10 were tested.Brain dopamine levels were used as readout.We found that minocycline prevented brain dopamine level from declining in DJ 1A Drosophila model.This protective effect was not seen in PINK1 model.Coenzyme Q10 was protective in both models.The Drosophila model of Parkinson's disease revealed the specific function of chemicals,thus provided a novel platform to search for new drugs to treat the disease.