Frederic R. Avis Anna M. Plicz Science Prize

By Hannah Cha Class of 2025

Editor’s Note: The Plicz Science Prize honors two revered St. Mark’s biology teachers whose love of teaching and learning set examples for both colleagues and students. The Avis-Pliscz Science prize is awarded to the student who, through curiosity, determination, passion, and practical application of ideas, has acquired a deeper understanding of particular scientific processes.

Effects of GABA Treatment on Locomotive Behavior Recovery in Sleep-Deprived Drosophila Melanogaster

Abstract

The prevalence of sleep disorders and chronic sleep deprivation in modern society has become a significant public health concern as the consequences of inadequate sleep extend beyond mere fatigue, impacting various aspects of human health and function. This study investigates the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the recovery rate of locomotive behavior in sleep-deprived Drosophila melanogaster, utilizing the open-field assay to observe their movements. Wild-type flies were categorized into eight groups: female and male, put in an 18-6 LD cycle or 12-12 LD cycle, observed under GABA treatment, and no GABA treatment. Results revealed that the substitution of GABA in wild-type flies results in an increased rate of activity, whereas flies fed a traditional diet showed a continuous decrease in locomotor activity. Although the data collected supports the hypothesis, further research is needed to confirm the relationship between GABA application and locomotive behavior.

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