The Pletcher laboratory- located in the A. Alfred Taubman Biomedical Science Research Building (BSRB),  combines genetic, biochemical, and behavioral techniques to understand the nature of aging-related disease. We use the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model system and focus on evolutionarily conserved molecular pathways. Currently, we are studying genes involved in linking neurosensory function, diet, and immune function with aging and aging-related disease. We also seek to harness technological advancements in computational analysis, optogenetics, and robotics to improve the capabilities and efficiency of high-throughput lifespan measurements.