Phenotypic analysis of the Dopa decarboxylase gene cluster mutants in Drosophila melanogaster

Mutations in most of the 18 Dopa decarboxylase (Ddc) loci of Drosophila melanogaster produce similar cuticle and catecholamine-related disorders. Mutations in seven genes disturb catecholamine levels during pupal and prepupal development indicating that the genes probably encode proteins involved in catecholamine degradation. Mutations in 14 loci disturb cuticle formation, sclerotization or melanization, and mutations in 11 loci produce melanotic pseudotumors. The Ddc gene cluster is a large group of functionally related genes responsible for common physiological processes.