Our laboratory combines genetic, biochemcial, and behavioral techniques to understand the nature of aging and the causes of aging-related disease. We also seek to harness technological advancements in computational analysis and robotics  to improve the capabilities and efficiency of high-throughput measurements. We use the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model system and focus on highly evolutionarily conserved molecular pathways. Currently we are studying genes involved in linking neurosensory function, diet, and immune function with aging and aging-related disease.

Selected publications:

 

Skorupa, A. Dervisefendic, D. J. Zwiener, S. D. Pletcher. 2008. Dietary composition specifies consumption, obesity, and lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster.  Aging Cell. 7(4):478-490. PMCID: PMC2574586 

 

Libert, S. and S. D. Pletcher. 2007. Modulation of longevity by environmental sensing.  Cell. 131:1231-1234.

 

Libert, S.  J. Zwiener, X. Chu, W. VanVoorhies, G. Roman, S. D. Pletcher. 2007. Regulation of Drosophila lifespan by olfaction and food-derived odors.  Science.  315:1133-1137.

 

Libert, S. Y Chao, X. Chu, and S.D. Pletcher. 2006. Trade-offs between longevity and pathogen resistance in Drosophila melanogaster are mediated by NFkB signaling. Aging Cell. 5: 533-43.

 

Pletcher, S. D., S. J. Macdonald, R. Marguirie, U. Certa, S. C. Stearns, D. B. Goldstein, and L. Partridge. 2002. Genome-wide transcript profiles in aging and calorically restricted Drosophila melanogaster. Current Biology 12:712-723.