Improving Productivity of Microorganisms and Plants
Discovering New Roles of Microorganisms
Microorganisms play a vital role in the food and pharmaceutical sectors as well as in fostering a circular society. Our goal is to identify, thoroughly analyze, and enhance the unique capabilities of these microorganisms. Would you like to join us in exploring this fascinating world full of mystery and potential?
Agricultural Applications of Soil Bacteria in Promoting Plant Growth
Plants absorb various substances through their roots for growth. Simultaneously, they actively secrete substances such as sucrose and amino acids via their roots, thereby fostering the vigorous proliferation of microorganisms, primarily bacteria. Among these soil bacteria are species that enhance plant growth or produce antibiotics to protect plants from pathogens. Consequently, our group is engaged in research to isolate soil bacteria that proliferate around roots and confer beneficial effects on plants, with the aim of applying these findings to agricultural production.
The Role of Soil Microorganisms in Nutrient Supply to Crops
Soil microorganisms play a vital role by storing plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium within their bodies and releasing them to supply crops. We are conducting research to elucidate the functions of these soil microorganisms and utilize them to enhance crop productivity.
Enhancing Translation Efficiency to Increase Protein Production
Enzymes that catalyze various chemical reactions and antibodies that bind exclusively to specific target molecules are proteins that are vital for research and industrial advancement. Proteins are synthesized via transcription from DNA to mRNA, followed by translation, in which ribosomes interpret the mRNA and link amino acids. To optimize protein productivity, our primary focus is on developing technologies that enhance translation efficiency and analyzing the mechanisms underlying this process.
Application of Novel Enzymes and Novel Metabolic Pathways
to Fermentation Production of Useful Substances
Currently, significant expectations are placed on white biotechnology, which seeks to synthesize beneficial chemical compounds through microbial fermentation instead of traditional organic synthesis from petroleum sources. We are conducting research to achieve highly efficient and sustainable production of substances by applying the enzymes and metabolic pathways we have identified to facilitate the generation of useful compounds via white biotechnology.
Elucidate the Mechanisms that Regulate Flowering and Fruiting
Jasmonic acid is a plant hormone that activates defense responses during pest attacks. It also acts as a flowering hormone, prompting buds to bloom, and plays a role in seed development. Ongoing research into its various functions aims to develop technologies for controlling flowering and fruiting.
Understanding Information Molecules that Manipulate Plant Growth
The growth of plants, a phenomenon observed casually on a daily basis, is sustained by various information-carrying molecules moving between cells and between roots and leaves, facilitating communication to ensure balanced growth. By understanding the nature of these informational molecules and the mechanisms through which they transmit information, we are actively engaged in research and development of fundamental technologies aimed at improving plant productivity.