Unraveling the Mechanisms of Cells
at the Molecular Level
Discover Novel Enzymes
and Elucidate their Unknown Properties
Enzymes are proteins with extraordinary catalytic functions, and a vast diversity of enzymes exists within cells. Our research concentrates on enzymes derived from microorganisms such as archaea and bacteria, aiming to identify novel enzymes in organisms that have been overlooked until now. We are committed to elucidating their unknown properties, including their structure, function, and mechanisms governing activity regulation.
Analyzing the Third Chain of Life: Glycans, to Explore a New Vision of Life
The sugar chains present on the surface of human cells are mysterious molecules whose fundamental properties have historically remained largely uncharacterized. As the third fundamental biomolecular component of life following nucleic acids and proteins, these sugar chains are responsible for determining blood types and are implicated in influenza infections. Despite their involvement in well-known biological phenomena, they have traditionally not been the focus of central scientific attention. Currently, our research efforts are concentrated on sugar chains, which represent one of the most closely watched fields in the life sciences.
Exploring the Protein Molecules that Determine Our Health and Disease States
When our bodies are healthy, approximately 20,000 proteins each perform their roles, ensuring vital functions proceed smoothly. However, when disruption occurs for any reason, various responses occur at the cellular, tissue, and organism levels. If these responses are inappropriate, a disease state develops. Our laboratory studies phenomena occurring in human cells and tissues using various cutting-edge biological science techniques, focusing on enzymes that modify proteins, factors that promote the growth (differentiation) of skin epidermis, and blood coagulation factors.
Unraveling the Mechanism by Which Genes Shape Organisms
Morning glories, fruit flies, mice—all living beings possess forms dictated by their respective species. This arises from genetic determination of form. Nonetheless, the precise mechanism underlying this process remains poorly understood. Our research employs pollen as a material to elucidate the mechanisms by which genes influence pollen morphology. Within the Faculty of Agriculture, numerous fundamental studies of this nature are also underway.
Understanding How Cells Respond to Nutrients and Stress
The diverse cells that make up our bodies possess mechanisms capable of accurately detecting nutrients, pathogens, and various stressors, thereby facilitating appropriate responses such as proliferation, migration, or cell death. The disruption of these mechanisms can lead to cancer, resulting from abnormal cell proliferation or neurodegeneration, caused by neuronal cell death. Our focus is on calcium ions and amino acids, which serve as signaling molecules within cells, and we analyze the functions of proteins responsible for detecting these signals. Additionally, we conduct research aimed at preventing diseases caused by protein mutations or loss-of-function mutations, and at extending healthy lifespan.