In order to identify novel mutations affecting mechanosensation, we designed an assay that measures the behavioral response to tactile stimulation of fly bristles in mutant clones generated by the MARCM method. The combination of techniques allows for the identification of mechanosensitive mutations that would otherwise be lethal.
Murphy, T. P., Luu, D. D., DeSimone, J. A., O'Brien, T. C., Lally, C. J., Lindblad, J. J., Webster, S. M. A Behavioral Assay for Mechanosensation of MARCM-based Clones in Drosophila melanogaster. J. Vis. Exp. (106), e53537, doi:10.3791/53537 (2015).