The role of dietary amino acids in shaping Drosophila melanogaster reproduction and lifespan

A balanced diet is important for good health. One of the dietary components, protein, has been shown to be particularly important since consuming too little restricts growth and reproduction, while consuming too much has been shown to shorten lifespan. Using the easily manipulated lab animal, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, I have found evidence that these constraints have shaped organismal body composition from bacteria to apex predators. I used a novel systems biology approach to find genes mediating the effects of protein on lifespan. My results point to new strategies by which we might use diet to improve lifelong health.