We have presented the results of a large-scale resource
development project at the BDSC. We substantially
improved the overall genomic coverage provided by
chromosomal deletions as well as the density of deletion
breakpoints. Our efforts will simplify experiments utilizing
deletions to map mutations or identify dosage-sensitive
enhancers and suppressors of mutant phenotypes.
To aid researchers in conducting such experiments efficiently,
we organized deletions providing maximal genomic
coverage into a Deficiency Kit. We also made a
complete inventory of haplolethal and haplosterile genes
and compiled information about other haploinsufficient
genes in D. melanogaster in the process of improving
deletion coverage. This information should contribute to
future studies of gene dosage relationships and aneuploidy
effects.