Modeling Neurodegenerative Disorders in Drosophila melanogaster

provides a powerful genetic model system in which to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss recent progress in modeling Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Huntington's Disease, Ataxia Telangiectasia, and neurodegeneration related to mitochondrial dysfunction or traumatic brain injury. We close by discussing recent progress using models of neural regeneration and how these are likely to provide critical insights into future treatments for neurodegenerative disorders.