Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

12-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Matthew Terry

Second Advisor

Dr. Megan Keniry

Third Advisor

Dr. Mirayda Torres Avila

Abstract

As most evolutionary development studies regarding wing origin take place using insects taxonomically closer to model organism, Drosophila melanogaster, there is a need of expanding studies to lower clades. While D. melanogaster is higher phylogenetically, basal clades would allow for a historical perspective of what occurs within the gene flow of conservative biomarkers. Further understanding of wings and flight would allow for a clearer understanding of how the migration of insects from sea to land has allowed them to become one of the most speciose taxa. Through the study of Thermobia Domestica, part of the Zygentoma, we expand on comprehension of biomarker conservation and developmental mechanisms within their embryology process. Developmental HOX genes analyzed include Distal-less, Wingless, Engrailed 1, Engrailed 2, and Ultrabithorax. Genes were sequenced at various developmental stages and used for further analysis through antibody staining and Fluorescent in-situ Hybridization. This study aids in expanding a new model organism within basal clades, while also gaining further genetic information on the novel structure, wings.

Comments

Copyright 2021 Luis Cantu Jr. All Rights Reserved.

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