Research Support
SPIRITS

International collaboration on novel post-genomic approaches to endangered animal conservation

Project Gist

International collaboration on novel post-genomic approaches to endangered animal conservation

Keywords

Wildlife, Endangered species, Conservation, Genome, Cell

Background and Purpose

In order to conserve endangered animals based on the regional characteristics of genetic resources, we conduct international collaborative research utilizing novel post-genome methods (genomics and cell analysis). We aim to enrich the database of endangered animal DNA and cells, to clarify the regional characteristics in Japan by comparing genomic sequences with subspecies abroad, and to provide guidelines for conservation activities in field and captive management stakeholders.

Project Achievements

We mutually visited and invited researchers from institutes in the United States and the UK, in which in situ and ex situ conservation of wildlife are studied, and we held seminars, and exchanged information by visiting field sites in each other. Collaborative research with the University of Ghana triggered the signing of an MOU between the University of Ghana and Kyoto University. Furthermore, we are in the process of concluding MOU of collaboration with San Diego Zoo. Many young researchers developed project management and research leadership experience, acquired new external funds and organized symposia.

Future Prospects

By strengthening cooperation with overseas research facilities, we will establish appropriate measures for conservation and reintroduction of Japanese golden eagles based on the prediction of population change. Also, we will progress a new study for age estimation by DNA methylation analysis. We will promote cell culture and iPS cell production to elucidate biological functions of wild animals by using cultivated cells.

Figure

At the observation site of the golden eagle in the Scottish Highlands. Murayama, Sato, Ishiniwa and others, guided by Ogden et al, were deeply impressed by finally observing an eagle in flight after walking through wetlands for a long time.
The Scottish beavers went extinct due to overhunting but reintroduced in 2009: Beaver dams cause flooding that damages local habitat restoring historic ecosystem and the forest. Now trying to coexist by devising installations to release water moderately.

Principal Investigator

MURAYAMA Miho

・MURAYAMA Miho
・Wildlife Research Center
・The Wildlife Research Center of Kyoto University has launched in 2008. The “Conservation laboratory” of the Center develops genome and cell analysis techniques and collaborate with domestic and overseas research institutions to progress conservation research from a new perspective.
http://miho-murayama.sakura.ne.jp/