Designing Appealing Biomaterials and Biologically Active Molecules
Research on New Drug Development Using Genetically Modified "Power-Up Microorganisms"
What invention brought the greatest happiness to humanity in the 20th century? One answer is antibiotics. The discovery of penicillin from blue mold highlights how organic compounds made by microorganisms—called "natural products"—are becoming important in pharmaceuticals. We are now creating medicines using "genome and gene modification technologies," which boost the natural biosynthetic abilities of microorganisms or alter their metabolic pathways to produce new, innovative molecules.
Unraveling the Mysteries of Molecules Created by Living Organisms
using Organic Chemistry!
Organisms employ a variety of molecules to facilitate their vital functions. For instance, numerous organisms utilize low-molecular-weight organic compounds as mechanisms for inter-individual communication, such as the substance that induces the catnip response in felines or the attractant chemical in pufferfish. However, since most of these are ultra-trace amounts, these substances remain poorly understood, and the mechanisms underlying their actions are still largely unknown. Our objective is to supply these essential molecules through chemical synthesis, elucidate their utilization by organisms, and promote their effective application.
_tiff.png)
Let's Protect the Earth's Environment
―Creating Biodegradable Polymers from Plants―
By harnessing the capabilities of organic chemistry in the development of novel materials, it becomes feasible to protect the global environment. Polymers utilized in everyday life can be produced (1) from renewable plant sources rather than petroleum, and (2) can be engineered into biodegradable variants with controllable degradation properties. Such advancements also contribute to progress in medical materials and other applications. Employing these innovative approaches, we invite you to join us in creating polymers that serve to protect the global environment.