Fruitless (gene)

The fruitless gene is a Drosophila gene that encodes several transcription factor proteins. It has several promoters, each encoding proteins with a BTB domain and zinc finger motif. Fruitless transcription factors are required for proper development of several body structures, including neurons and cells necessary for fly sexual behavior. Flies with mutations in the fruitless gene display altered sexual behavior, including, most prominently, redirection of normal male courtship behavior towards other males. Recent research has also revealed that males with the mutated version of fruitless fight each other as if they were females.

fruitless