Mecanismos de tumorigénesis en Drosophila

The main focus of our research is the study of tumorigenesis, a phenomenon of great scientific and societal relevance. Because of its sophisticated genetic technology and other experimental advantages, we are using the imaginal discs of the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster as a model system to investigate molecular and genetic factors behind the appearance and development of tumors. We are interested in two main aspects: 1) the tumorigenic potential of cells that cannot execute the apoptotic program and 2) Chromatin modifications of senescent cells and reversibility of senescence. Regarding the chromatin modifications in senescence, one of the more relevant observations that we have made is the critical role of retrotransposons in the process. We have found an unexpected role of F-element retrotransposons (that belong to the LINE family) in the maintenance of the senescent state; when they are expressed at high levels senescent cells appear to revert to normal state. This is a very significant observation, first because it reveals that these elements – known to be involved in chromatin remodeling during early embryogenesis in the mouse and Drosophila - have a role in the senescent state, and second because it is the first indication that the senescent status can be reversed. The molecular details of this phenomenon are to be investigated in the course of the master work.