Fruit Flies: Could These Pests Save Us?

Within the past month, researchers uncovered a new “energy switch” in drosophila (or fruit fly) cells that balances mitochondrial destruction. This new discovery has numerous implications for the medical industry, potentially unlocking treatments for various diseases originating from mitochondrial dysfunctions. These diseases range from Parkinson’s, Barth Syndrome, and even cancer, exemplifying the far-reaching outcomes of the medical breakthrough.

Researchers from Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and Roma Tre university, in conducting their study, discovered that in reducing the activity of a key cellular regulator, phosphatase B55, disease models showcased improved Parkinson’s symptoms and mitochondrial health. The study was led by Professor of Biochemistry at Università Cattolica Francesco Cecconi and conducted by Valentina Cianfanelli, Associate Professor at the Department of Science at Roma Tre University.

Cartoon of a Drosophila male (left) and female (right). From Shimosako et al. doi:10.1007/978-1-62703-655-9_4

Mitochondria are organelles essential to the maintenance of cell health, and in disrupting the balance between old and new mitochondria within a cell, its very survival is put at risk. If an overabundance of damaged organelles accumulates within this basic structural unit, or if they are excessively destroyed, the subtle balance of organelles within a cell is disrupted. In mitochondrial diseases, this equilibrium disturbance can target various bodily functions (such as cerebral, physical, or ocular ones) and endanger corporal health. The results of the study indicate that reducing B55 plays a key role in promoting the degradation of damaged mitochondria and preventing the overproduction of such organelles. Drosophila (fruit flies) demonstrated improved motor functions and mitochondrial defects typical of Parkinson's when tested. Thanks to these disease models, researchers were able to gauge new types of potential treatments. 

Among these treatments could be the development of small molecules to act on dopaminergic neurons and counter their death, a possible “universal drug” that could be used for various mitochondrial myopathies and neurodegenerative disorders, or even potential developments in oncology. Therefore, this new discovery marks a significant advancement in the medical field, changing the manner in which drugs are developed for widespread use.

Source: “Hidden Cellular “Power Switch” Could Transform Parkinson’s Treatment.”

ScienceDaily, 2025, https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251004092903.htm