Effects of PINK1 mutation on synapses and behavior in the brain of Drosophila melanogaster.

Mutations in the PINK1 gene are responsible for typical symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Using Drosophila melanogaster mutant PINK1B9 and after PINK1 silencing with RNAi using transgenic lines, we observed defects in synapses and behavior. The lack or reduced expression of PINK1 prolonged sleep during the day (nap) and decreased the total locomotor activity during 24 h, in addition to a decrease in climbing ability and a reduced lifespan.