Genome Decoding of Naked Mole-Rats Reared in Japan for Intra-species Comparative Analysis

Key Points: The naked mole-rat, known for its strong resistance to cancer and hypoxia, as well as its longevity, has had its genome decoded with high precision using individuals reared in Japan. The results led to the discovery of 167 previously unknown genes and the proposal of 250 corrected models for existing genes. This enhances the accuracy and reliability required for comparing genes within or between species. Significant intra-species variation was confirmed in 74 genes, including those potentially involved in social behaviors such as aggression and tunnel digging, which are linked to neurotransmitter receptors. By combining these identified variant genes with phenotypic analysis, researchers can gain clues to understanding individual differences at the genetic level. As a model mammal for healthy longevity, these genome data serve as a vital foundation for accelerating the understanding of anti-aging and disease resistance mechanisms, and for future human-applied research.

Overview: Researchers including Kohei Toga and Professor Hidemasa Bono of Hiroshima University, Assistant Professor Kaori Oka and Professor Kyoko Miura of Kyushu University, Assistant Professor Hiroyuki Tanaka and Professor Takehiko Itoh of Tokyo Institute of Science, and Specially Appointed Professor Atsushi Toyoda of the National Institute of Genetics have successfully decoded the genome of the naked mole-rat (Heterocephalus glaber) reared in Japan. Generally, one sequence is determined as the reference genome for a species. However, it has been pointed out that naked mole-rats have significant genetic differences within the species, and the conventional reference genome may not fully capture this diversity. This study aimed to clarify the differences in genome sequences existing within the species by newly decoding the genome of individuals reared in Japan. As a result, a genome containing more genes than the reference genome was obtained, and many previously unreported or structurally inaccurate genes were identified. Future verification of how this genetic diversity relates to physiological and behavioral characteristics is expected to elucidate the biological significance of intra-species variation.