Mouse Genomics Resource Laboratory

Koide Group

Behavioral genetics using wild-derived mouse strains

Faculty

KOIDE, Tsuyoshi
Associate Professor

tkoide@nig.ac.jp

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 Lab HP

Research Summary

The genetic basis for individual differences in complex traits is still unclear. In order to clarify the mechanisms related to behavioral diversity, we are using a series of wild-derived mouse strains. Wild derived strains exhibit a prominent degree of wildness and phenotypic diversity among them. We are also developing efficient genome editing methodologies in rodents with CRISPR/Cas9. We are identifying genes related to behavioral diversity using these tools, and are aiming to understand the role of these genes in the molecular, cellular, and neural mechanisms that underlie this behavioral diversity.

We have established a wild-derived heterogeneous stock mouse (WHS) and used it to establish a genetically tamed mouse population through selective breeding. Using these mice, we are conducting genetic analysis, gene expression analysis, behavioral and neural analysis, and gut microbiota analysis. Through these analyses, we aim to elucidate the mechanism of animal domestication.

Selected Publications

  • Fujiwara K, Toyoda A, Katsuki T, Sato Y, Biswa BB, Kishida T, Tsuruta M, Nakamura Y, Mochizuki T, Kimura N, Kawamoto S, Ohta T, Nonomura K, Niki H, Yano H, Umehara K, Suzuki C, Koide T.* Chromosome-scale genomes of two wild flowering cherries (Cerasus itosakura and C. jamasakura) provide insights into structural evolution in Cerasus. DNA Research. Published: 30 October 2025. dsaf031, 2025. DOI: 10.1093/dnares/dsaf031
  • Dagher S, DeAngelo D, Sato RY, Norimoto H, Koide T, Ishiyama S. (*co-corresponding author) Comparative analysis of tickling and conspecific play in tame mice and golden hamsters. Behavioural Brain Research. 496:115849,2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2025.115849
  • Fujiwara K, Toyoda A, Biswa BB, Kishida T, Tsuruta M, Nakamura Y, Kimura N, Kawamoto S, Sato Y, Katsuki T, Sakura 100 Genome Consortium, Koide T.* A Near Complete Genome Assembly of the Oshima Cherry Cerasus speciosa. Scientific Data. 12, Article number: 162, 2025. DOI: 10.1038/s41597-025-04388-z
  • Nakamura M, Nomoto K, Mogi K, Koide T, Kikusui T. (*co-corresponding author) Visual and olfactory signals of conspecifics induce emotional contagion in mice. Proceedings of the Royal Society B. 291: 20241815, 2024. DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2024.1815