Abstract
Understanding the complex array of genes, proteins and cells involved in learning and memory is a major challenge for neuroscientists. Using the genetically powerful model system, Drosophila melanogaster, and its well-studied courtship behavior, investigators have begun to delineate essential elements of associative and nonassociative behavioral plasticity. Advances in transgenic tools and developments in behavioral assays have increased the power of studying courtship learning in the fruit fly.