Members

Research Focus

Dopamine is thought to play an important role in motor control, memory, learning and motivation. We focus on Parkinson's disease (PD), which is one of the most common neurological disorders associated with dopamine dysfunction. As PD animal models, we have developed genetically modified mice targeting dopamine receptors and related molecules. Through analyzing the behavior and neural circuits of these model animals, we aim to elucidate the role of dopamine signaling on motor control, learning and memory, and to develop a new therapeutic approach for PD. Additionally, we are studying RNA-binding proteins involved in neural circuit formation and function, as well as the effects of in vitro culture of early-stage mouse embryo on individual development.
We are responsible for managing the university-wide animal experimental facility, providing ethical and appropriate environments for experiments involving a variety of animals, such as mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, pigs, Japanese macaques, marmosets, and medaka fish. Moreover, we provide research support using reproductive biotechnologies such as in vitro fertilization, embryo transfer, cryopreservation of embryo and sperm. This support is crucial for maintaining Specific Pathogen-Free (SPF) environment for experimental animals and facilitating efficient research through planned animal production. Furthermore, we are advancing the creation of genetically modified animals using genome editing technologies, aiming to promote animal experiments in the university.