Field of Applied Biological Chemistry
Biochemistry Lab.
Professor Yoichi Sakakibara
Main Research Theme
Research on elucidation of protein functions and applications
Proteins are fascinating molecules that play a crucial role in life activities, and studying them leads to a deeper understanding of life itself. We also aim to apply protein research to contribute to humanity.
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Associate Professor Katsuhisa Kurogi
Main Research Theme
Studies on metabolism of bioactive substances and metabolic enzymes
The reactions called "metabolism," which regulate the condition of our bodies, still have many unknown aspects. We focus on the metabolism of bioactive substances such as steroids and the enzymes that control these processes.
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Health Biochemistry Lab.
Professor Hidemi Hattori
Main Research Theme
Research on obesity-related diseases and development of biomaterials
Why does being overweight increase the risk of disease? How can we treat illnesses when they occur? We conduct research to answer these questions of "why" and "how."
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Associate Professor Nozomu Eto
Main Research Theme
Research on the regulation of cellular functions, with a focus on aging, inflammation, and biological defense
Aged cells cause inflammation in surrounding healthy tissues, shortening healthy lifespan. We are working to stop inflammation caused by aging cells using food components. Would you like to join us in researching ways to overcome the inevitable process of aging?
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Field of Food Chemistry
Nutrition Biochemistry Lab.
Associate Professor Miyu Nishikawa
Main Research Theme
Research on metabolism and functionality of food factors in the body
Some food components are metabolized by enzymes in the body, resulting in health benefits. For example, individuals with impaired liver function may not experience sufficient efficacy from food components that are activated by liver enzymes. By studying the relationship between the metabolism and biological functions of food components, we aim to propose effective strategies for health promotion.
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Assistant Professor Daigo Yokoyama
Main Research Theme
Search for Functional Factors Contributing to Healthy Life Extension by Dietary Fate
Diet is essential for our survival, but depending on its content, it can either cause various diseases or help prevent and improve them. Through research focused on animal experiments, we aim to extend healthy lifespans by studying the effects of food components.
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Food Chemistry Lab.
Professor Masao Yamasaki
Main Research Theme
Research on the search for useful materials utilizing food functionality and those application
We are conducting research focusing on the relationship between daily meals and our health. In particular, we are also paying attention to the health benefits of local ingredients, aiming to introduce scientifically proven ingredients to the world.
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Associate Professor Kenjirou Ogawa
Main Research Theme
Search for foods with protective action on visual function and development of foods with functional claims
People obtain about 80% of information through their eyes, indicating that visual function greatly influences our quality of life. Therefore, we are conducting research on foods that are beneficial for eye health and environmental factors that may harm vision, aiming to create a society where people do not suffer from eye-related issues.
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Field of Biotechnology
Applied and Molecular Microbiology Lab.
Professor Naoto Yoshida
Main Research Theme
Research on elucidation of interactions between the environment and microorganisms and their utilization
Exposing microorganisms to environments that are impossible on Earth is called placing them in a surrealistic state. From this unique state, we can discover phenomena that no one has ever known before. We are confident that creating innovations from these discoveries will enrich the future.
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Assistant Professor Keiji Kiyosh
Main Research Theme
Research on substance production in fermentative microorganisms
Microbial fermentation is used in various fields, from food production to fuel and raw materials for chemical products. We are working on analyzing its characteristics and improving microorganisms to enhance their fermentation capabilities.
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Environmental Microbiology Lab.
Associate Professor Kengo Inoue
Main Research Theme
Research on energy production and environmental remediation using microbial functions
We are conducting research on microorganisms, small living organisms that still harbor unknown potential. Our work spans from exploring their unique abilities and uncovering their mechanisms to developing practical applications.
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Plant Physiology Lab.
Professor Taketo Inaba
Main Research Theme
Studies on organelle formation in plant cells and its role in environmental adaptation
Plants, which lack the ability to move, have the flexibility to sense and adapt to their surrounding environment. We are conducting research to understand their sophisticated survival strategies at the molecular level and to further modify these abilities.
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Frontier Science Research Center
Shio Lab.
Associate Professor Takuya Shiota
Main Research Theme
Research on Regulating the Gram-Negative Bacteria Targeting Their Surface Molecules
Our research aims to understand the biogenesis of β-barrel outer membrane proteins found on the surface of Gram-negative bacteria. By targeting this molecular system, we aim to develop drugs and vaccines to regulate these bacteria, including killing them, utilizing them, or preventing their infection."
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Tenure Track Office
Synthetic Biology Lab.
Tenure Track Associate Professor Keisuke Fukunaga
Main Research Theme
Regulation of cellular functions using RNA aptamers
I am interested in controlling gene expression using tools such as synthetic riboswitches, as well as integrating these elements into networks to construct synthetic gene circuits. I utilize various gene expression platforms, including animal cells, cell-free protein synthesis systems, and microorganisms. These approaches hold promise for applications in cell therapy, bioproduction, and biosensing."
