Analysis of Learning Disabilities of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex in Drosophila

摘要

Intellectual impairments/learning disabilities are among the most frequent clinical manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). In this proposal, we explored Drosophila models for TSC related learning defects. Both tsc1 and tsc2 genes are conserved in flies and mutants are available. Our preliminary data indicated that mutations in both genes were able to cause learning defects even in heterozygous mutants. We also showed that this gene could be critically involved in learning processes for over expression of both gene together led to an increase in memory retention. Although these studies were still very preliminary, it is encouraging that Drosophila may serve as models for gaining insights into molecular basis of the TSC disorder-related cognitive dysfunction.