Veterinary Ethology aims to understand the mind of animals. We believe that accumulating both basic and applied research to better grasp the mechanisms and meanings of animal behavior will ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of animal minds. In the long term, we hope that our studies will contribute to building better relationships between humans and animals. Currently, we are pursuing the following two research themes: ①Research on Chemical Communication in Ruminants
In ruminants such as goats and cattle, a phenomenon known as the “male effect” occurs, in which pheromones released by males activate the ovarian function of females via olfaction. We have previously identified 4-ethyloctanal as the major component of pheromones released by male goats. Building on the methods developed in our goat studies, we are now aiming to identify pheromones in cattle. ②Behavioral Genetics of Canine Temperament
In many mammals, including humans, clear individuality is observed. When discussing individual differences in behavioral traits, the innate basis is generally defined as temperament. Although many aspects of temperament remain unclear, elucidating its genetic basis is expected to provide valuable insights into the evolution and development of behavior. Furthermore, such findings may be applied to diagnosing and treating human psychiatric disorders and behavioral problems in pets, as well as to practical contexts such as tailoring animal handling to individual personalities or enabling early assessment of aptitude for special working roles. In this research theme, we focus on dogs, investigating the relationships between various temperaments—such as aggressiveness and anxiety—and genetic polymorphisms (individual differences in DNA sequences).
Educational approach
Promoting Research with Free Thinking!
The Laboratory of Veterinary Ethology welcomes undergraduate students who major in both Animal Life Science (4-year course) and Veterinary (6-year course). In some of the practical training sessions we conduct, students analyze the behaviors of large animals through recorded video footage or observe small laboratory animals, encouraging them to apply free and creative thinking in their analyses. During the undergraduate years, we place particular emphasis on helping students develop logical reasoning skills through such hands-on experiences.
At the graduate level (Department of Animal Resource Sciences), we also accept many students from other universities, which creates a diverse environment where members enjoy pursuing research freely. Both undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged, as much as possible, to choose their own research topics. Perhaps because of this open and flexible atmosphere, our graduates have gone on to a wide variety of careers, including university faculty positions, government service (e.g., Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries; Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology; National Police Agency; and local government), as well as employment in private companies—not only pharmaceutical and food industries, but also in fields such as journalism and publishing.
Vision for industry-academia collaboration
Are You Interested in Bovine Pheromones?
If we are able to identify a pheromone derived from bulls that activates ovarian function in cows, we hope to move forward toward the ultimate goal of practical application through industry–academia collaboration. However, in reality, applied research will be required to determine the appropriate target animals (including breed, age, and specific ovarian disorders), methods of administration (including dosage), timing, and duration of treatment. Therefore, we would like to collaborate in a manner that takes these factors into consideration. Potential partners could include companies with expertise in formulation development, as well as enterprises that operate large-scale farms capable of supporting applied research.
