Studying the human brain is difficult because of its vast and intricate network of neural connections. The fruit fly offers a simpler but similar model that researchers can more easily map.

"By studying the fly brain, we have provided an initial glimpse into how a simple 'thought' is converted into an action."

When fruit flies see other dead fruit flies, their life spans are cut short. Other species also undergo analogous physiological changes when seeing their dead.

Postdoc Carolyn Elya sheds light on how parasitic fungus hijacks the nervous system of flies.

Neurons adapt to help fruit flies stay awake in dangerous situations, a finding that could lead to new ways to treat insomnia in people.

A taste receptor sensitive to acidity in fruit flies is in the same group as human sour receptors, research finds.

A hormone in fruit flies could clarify how human metabolism is regulated and could pave the way for new ways to treat obesity and diabetes.

A male fruit fly will chase a female for more than 26 yards—that's 9 miles—vibrating its wings in a fruit fly love song. But first he needs to be aroused.