Discovery-Based Chromosome Biology Education Through Comparative and Functional Genomics Projects in Drosophila

Abstract

Discovery-based education in chromosome biology can be effectively implemented using Drosophila as a model system. Chromosome biology encompasses genome organization, segregation mechanisms, structural evolution, and epigenetic regulation. Using comparative and functional genomics, students can engage in hypothesis-driven, hands-on exploration that connects theoretical concepts to practical experiments. The wealth of genomic data and genetic tools in Drosophila enables classroom-scale projects, including mapping chromatin states, analyzing transposable elements, and investigating gene regulation and chromosomal dynamics. This approach fosters student ownership, reinforces understanding of the genotype–phenotype relationship, and highlights the integration of chromosome structure, segregation, and evolution within an educational framework. Observational studies of centromeres, telomeres, and chromatid dynamics provide tangible insights into chromosome behavior, supporting both conceptual learning and experimental discovery