埼玉大学 List of Products and Services

By adding sensing functions to everyday home appliances and mechanical systems, and utilizing IoT (Internet of Things) technology, we can develop devices that monitor human health conditions. By combining these devices and systems with wearable, non-invasive, and low-cost biometric measurement sensors and medical devices, we can measure biometric data such as life logs and analyze it using AI (artificial intelligence) techniques, enabling support for home healthcare and health management, including disease onset prediction. Additionally, applying these technologies to mechanical systems allows for monitoring operational status and predictive maintenance. We are conducting research and development on AI technologies for home healthcare and health support, IoT technologies, non-invasive biometric measurement, human interface technologies for user-friendly device design, and brain-machine interface technologies, contributing to the advancement and digital transformation (DX) in the field of health sciences.

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The advancement of computer performance, the increase in storage capacity, and the explosive growth of information circulating on the internet have significantly changed our living environment. In research and development settings, it is becoming increasingly important to utilize not only the knowledge and experience accumulated by individuals and research labs but also the vast amounts of data measured by experimental equipment and the ever-growing literature and databases. However, even when trying to utilize available data, there are cases where data is not organized or only printed data is available, making it difficult to start data analysis easily. Additionally, even after the data is prepared, making progress toward conclusions requires decision-making based on certain skills and experience regarding what to derive from the data, which analysis methods to use, and how to evaluate the results. The collective term for the technologies that address these challenges is data science, and currently, we are engaged in research on exploratory data analysis methods to facilitate understanding of data, as well as in the development of engineers and researchers equipped with specialized knowledge and the qualities of data scientists.

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Most of the biomass carbon (biologically derived carbon) on Earth exists as polysaccharides in plant cell walls, with cellulose being the most representative. The non-edible parts of plants are mostly polysaccharides from cell walls when moisture is removed. In addition to cellulose, plant cell walls contain pectin, arabinogalactan, glucomannan, and xylan. These have been recognized as "dietary fiber," but in recent years, their prebiotic effects in regulating gut microbiota have gained attention. There can be useful cell wall polysaccharides remaining in waste parts such as vegetable and fruit pomace and residues. We are researching how plants synthesize and metabolize various cell wall polysaccharides, while also being conscious of whether we can increase the production of useful polysaccharides or improve them to be of higher value. Additionally, we routinely investigate the structure and properties of polysaccharides and also prepare oligosaccharides through enzymatic degradation.

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Plants cannot move once they establish their roots, so when the surrounding environment changes, they directly experience the effects as "stress." As a result, plants have evolved to cope with various adverse conditions, such as cold and drought, in their respective habitats. In particular, damage caused by cold, known as "freezing stress," is one of the most severe and complex forms of environmental stress, and it remains a significant issue in agriculture even as global warming progresses. Some plants have developed a mechanism called "cold acclimation," which allows them to sense cold and become more resilient to it. This process is akin to "preparing for winter," during which soluble sugars and polysaccharides in the cell walls of the plants increase, and changes such as the activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging systems occur. This can enhance the value of agricultural products. I aim to reduce damage from freezing in agriculture and to quantify and improve the added value of crops by researching the mechanisms of cold acclimation with a focus on sugars.

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As environmental changes progress, promoting decarbonization towards the realization of a sustainable society has become a global challenge. We are developing biofuels using microalgae with the aim of creating carbon-neutral renewable energy. The microalga Nannochloropsis accumulates lipids that can reach up to 50% of its cell content and can be cultivated at high densities, which allows us to develop technology for the efficient and high-yield production of lipids using this alga. Meanwhile, we are also advancing the development of an "extracellular production method" for free fatty acids using cyanobacteria, another type of microalgae. The intracellular production method, which involves accumulating fuel substances within the cells, consumes a tremendous amount of energy during processes such as harvesting, drying, and extracting the fuel substances. In contrast, the extracellular production method is expected to significantly reduce costs and has the advantage of being able to produce fuel substances in quantities that exceed the cell volume. The lipids and free fatty acids obtained from the algae can be converted into diesel fuel and other products.

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Photosynthesis is a reaction that uses light energy to fix carbon dioxide and produce sugars, but it is strongly influenced by changes in environmental conditions such as light intensity, temperature, and nutrient availability. Photosynthetic organisms optimize their photosynthetic reactions by altering their bodies in response to these environmental fluctuations, while also avoiding damage caused by environmental stress. We aim to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which cyanobacteria, bacteria that perform oxygenic photosynthesis like plants, sense changes in environmental conditions, transmit this information within their cells, and regulate gene expression and protein activity to achieve environmental responses in their photosynthetic systems. We have already identified many factors involved in the regulation of photosynthesis and carbon metabolism, and by genetically modifying these factors, we aim to develop applications such as the production of useful substances using cyanobacteria.

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In recent years, the increase in carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere has been raised as a social issue. Plants and microalgae that perform photosynthesis absorb carbon dioxide, utilize light energy to synthesize sugars, and further synthesize proteins, lipids, and secondary metabolites. In the case of crops, we utilize this as food, but recently there has been active research aimed at making these photosynthetic organisms produce oils and useful functional components. We are conducting research to enhance the environmental stress resistance of photosynthetic organisms to increase their material production capacity, as well as isolating metabolic enzymes to produce specific substances and controlling their functions. As an example of our research, we are studying how to enhance photosynthetic ability by changing the amount and balance of nicotinamide coenzymes (NAD(P)(H)), which are used as electron carriers in various metabolic pathways. We are also promoting metabolic modification research on Nannochloropsis, which is expected to be a promising energy-producing organism.

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The "strigolactone" that we are studying is a signaling molecule secreted by plants from their roots to initiate symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. AM fungi provide nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen to the host plant, making them beneficial partners for the plant. Additionally, "strigolactone" functions as a plant hormone that suppresses branching in the above-ground parts of the plant (tillering in rice). When plants experience nutrient deficiency, they increase the biosynthesis and secretion of "strigolactone," which suppresses branching and conserves energy needed for growth, thereby promoting symbiosis with AM fungi, the nutrient providers. Furthermore, root-parasitic weeds, which cause serious damage to agricultural production worldwide, do not germinate unless exposed to "strigolactone." It seems that root-parasitic weeds have evolved to utilize "strigolactone" as a signaling molecule to detect the presence of living roots, similar to AM fungi.

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Plant growth is easily influenced by environmental conditions, and every year there are reports of poor crop growth and damage due to droughts and floods caused by abnormal weather, as well as extreme temperatures. On the other hand, various plants in nature endure and grow in stress environments such as deserts, wetlands, and polar regions, and understanding the mechanisms of these plants' environmental resilience is important for future crop breeding and environmental conservation. We aim to clarify the roles of plant hormones involved in controlling these phenomena and the mechanisms of plant environmental sensing through basic research using genetic modification and genome editing. Recently, research on the molecular mechanisms involved in plant water sensing has revealed that osmotic sensing proteins, which are activated when plants are dry, are also involved in the regulation of flood responses. We are currently working on analyzing the genes that are regulated downstream of this process.

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Neodymium (Nd) magnets containing dysprosium (Dy) are high-performance magnets that enable energy-saving technologies such as motors. As the need to recycle Nd and Dy from used products increases in order to boost domestic self-sufficiency in the future, it is crucial to efficiently separate the components within the magnets. Traditional separation methods, such as solvent extraction, have the drawback of using large amounts of organic solvents. If Nd and Dy can be efficiently separated and recovered using only water as a solvent, it could become a superior separation method in terms of lower environmental impact compared to conventional methods. This research discovered that by utilizing coordination polymerization reactions, Nd and Dy can be precipitated and separated in one step using only water as the solvent. This study demonstrates that by incorporating organic ligands into the traditionally inorganic salt-based precipitation separation, the separation efficiency of Nd and Dy can be improved.

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Since I was little, I have been close to animals and plants, and I have always been very interested in living organisms. Additionally, because I liked making things, I enrolled in the Teacher Training Course for Technical Subjects at Saitama University’s Faculty of Education. There, I encountered the theme of "plant bioelectric potential" for my graduation research. I learned that, just like human electrocardiograms and brain waves, plants also have electrical signals, and by observing these signals, it is possible to capture the state of the plants. I was fascinated by this concept. I realized that plant bioelectric potential responds sensitively to various changes in the surrounding environment, which means that plants are very high-precision sensors. This sparked my interest in developing sensor systems based on plants, and I am currently conducting research in the Faculty of Engineering. Research on plant bioelectric potential has few examples and many unclear points, but it has clarified relationships such as those with photosynthetic activity. I believe that by utilizing this in environmental control in agricultural settings, it can become a groundbreaking technology that contributes to energy-saving and high-efficiency cultivation techniques. Therefore, I am advancing my research every day.

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When water moves within plant bodies, small bubbles are generated, leading to the occurrence of acoustic emissions (AE). We have advanced research on sensors that detect these minute AEs and developed a sensor capable of detecting plant AEs using a charged material known as an electret. This technology allows for real-time information about the moisture status of plants and aims to be practical as a cultivation support technology for crops where watering management is crucial, such as tomatoes. Furthermore, the developed sensor covers a very wide frequency range from 1 Hz to 300 kHz, which means it has the potential to detect AEs emitted by various organisms. Currently, we are challenging the sensing of AEs from organisms such as algae and honeybees, exploring promising fields of AE sensing beyond crop cultivation. In the future, we aim to realize a society that connects diverse ecosystems and people by sensing the sounds of life, not only in agriculture but across various fields!

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Environmental and resource issues arise because human economic activities are increasingly impacting the Earth's environment. Amidst abnormal weather patterns occurring worldwide and the rapid destruction of natural resources on the planet, I am conducting research related to economic policies aimed at mitigating the burden that economic activities place on the Earth. My research fields include environmental economics and resource economics. In environmental economics, I focus on macro-level environmental issues that are global or cross-border, such as global warming, air pollution, and biodiversity loss, and I study mechanisms and systems to solve these problems. In resource economics, I research economic policies that promote the sustainable use of individual resources such as energy, minerals, and agricultural, forestry, and fishery products from a micro perspective, aiming for the effective utilization of scarce resources. Solving these issues requires changing human behavior, so I have recently been advancing research using methods that integrate behavioral economics and psychology. Particularly recently, attention has been drawn to the efforts of financial institutions regarding environmental issues, so I am conducting research on green bonds aimed at raising funds for projects that reduce environmental burdens.

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When bubbles are generated in an aqueous solution containing surfactants, metals and organic substances can be adsorbed onto the surface of the surfactant-containing bubbles. The bubbles that rise to the gas-liquid interface form foam, which can act as a carrier for substances adsorbed from the solution. By utilizing this foam, it is possible to remove dissolved substances from water. On the other hand, the foam that has expanded into a spherical shape is known as a soap bubble. The thin film of this soap bubble, which is only a few hundred nanometers thick, has the characteristic of being difficult to adsorb dye particles or molecules under gravity. If we can color these soap bubbles, we can create beautiful colored soap bubbles. Research is also being conducted to add color to soap bubbles. Additionally, efforts are being made to discover new functions and properties of surfactants through research. Studies are also being conducted to use surfactant solutions for cleaning organs and creating decellularized organs for regenerative medicine.

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In order to achieve carbon neutrality, research and development of carbon dioxide capture technology, which is considered one of the factors contributing to global warming, is progressing. Chemical adsorption methods are one of the capture technologies, and the conventional method of chemical absorption of carbon dioxide using amine compounds has been limited in application due to issues such as volatility, toxicity, and corrosiveness unique to organic compounds. In our laboratory, we have discovered that materials made from unprecedentedly inexpensive raw materials (sodium, iron, oxygen) can separate and capture carbon dioxide from mixed gases in the atmosphere over a wide temperature range and at various concentrations. Currently, we are working on improving the absorption rate of carbon dioxide, developing regeneration technology, and promoting the effective utilization of captured carbon dioxide. Additionally, we have successfully identified novel inorganic solid oxides that possess superior functionality for capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere compared to sodium ferrite, and we are advancing the development of new materials that are optimal for the application environment of carbon dioxide absorption materials.

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Various analytical methods can be applied to liquids, but these methods analyze the bulk of the liquid. "Bulk" refers to all molecules excluding those on the surface. For example, in a water droplet with a radius of 1 millimeter, 99.9997% are bulk water molecules. Since the majority is bulk, measuring it "normally" will automatically mean that the bulk has been measured. To analyze the surface of the liquid, that is, to perform spectroscopic analysis, a "non-standard" measurement method is required to sensitively capture the very few surface molecules. The surface of the liquid has unique properties that differ from the bulk and serves as a special reaction field where atmospheric chemical reactions that influence the Earth's environment and important biochemical reactions in medicine and pharmaceuticals occur. Since 2004, I have been working on developing methods for spectroscopic analysis of liquid surfaces with the aim of enabling such analysis to have high reliability similar to that of bulk ultraviolet-visible absorption and infrared absorption.

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Materials such as graphite, molybdenum disulfide, and black phosphorus have a layered structure formed by unit layers that spread in a two-dimensional plane and are stacked through van der Waals forces. These unit layers, with a thickness of less than 1 nanometer, are also referred to as "layered material atomic layers" and have recently gained attention as ultimately thin semiconductor device materials. Efforts are being made worldwide to realize high-performance field-effect transistors (FETs), gas sensors, photoelectric conversion devices, thermoelectric conversion devices, and more using these atomic layer materials. In the laboratory, research is being conducted to fabricate bulk single crystals and single crystal ultra-thin films of layered materials necessary for the development of these devices, as well as the development of devices such as FETs and gas sensors utilizing them.

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It has been revealed by many studies that animals such as migratory birds can sense the Earth's magnetic field and use it for behaviors like migration. We are researching the chemical reactions of radical pairs, which are considered candidates for the mechanism, and how they sense magnetic fields. Based on the idea that the isolated electrons in radicals behave like small magnets (spins) in a quantum mechanical manner, we aim to clarify phenomena in biology that are woven by quantum mechanics. Such fundamental research has potential applications in currently focused areas like spintronics, so-called quantum devices, as well as in the visualization of biological tissues and the construction of new biological models.

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It is known that living organisms can sense magnetic fields. Migratory birds are known to utilize geomagnetism to fly thousands of kilometers. Magnetotactic bacteria possess iron oxide (similar to a magnet) within their bodies, which helps them determine the direction of movement in a magnetic field. There are also studies suggesting that humans may potentially sense magnetic fields. If the mechanism for sensing magnetic fields can be applied, it may be possible to control various reactions occurring in living organisms using magnetic fields. If we can promote chemical reactions at specific locations, it could lead to new principles for cancer treatment and other applications. Although the mechanisms are still largely unknown, research is focusing on the magnetic properties (spin) of electrons in proteins and metals within living organisms. We are advancing research to elucidate how magnetic fields influence the structure and properties of biomolecules through electron spin. The effects of magnetic fields on biomolecules could lead to advancements in medicine and new biotechnologies. The interplay between electron spin and magnetic field effects holds broad potential applications that span the fields of biology, chemistry, and physics, including in areas like solar cells.

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Colors have captivated people since ancient times, such as Cleopatra's purple garments, which symbolized power, and the scarlet robes of Japanese monks. Today, vibrant colors abound in various settings, and the development of new structural frameworks for pigments is both fascinating and profound, with ongoing vigorous research. In recent years, the development of pigments has expanded beyond merely dyeing fabrics to include applications in a wide range of fields, such as pigments usable within living organisms and those for electronic device materials. Our research focuses on the following two themes: - Synthesis of compounds that absorb in the near-infrared region We are developing pigments that absorb in the near-infrared region, not only for use as dyes in electronic devices but also as biological imaging dyes. Furthermore, we are also expanding into luminescent pigments, in addition to absorption. - Synthesis of dyes for organic thin-film solar cells We are developing dyes for organic thin-film solar cells from the perspective of renewable energy. This includes the development of donor-acceptor type long-wavelength absorbing dyes for efficient use of indoor light. We believe that proposing new pigment frameworks is essential.

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Just as humans have right-handed and left-handed preferences, the molecular world also contains right-handed and left-handed molecules (enantiomers). In applications such as food, pharmaceuticals, and fragrances, these left and right molecules can exhibit completely different effects, making the technology for separating mixtures into their respective enantiomers (optical resolution) important. While the technology of optical resolution has been known for a long time, systematic research on it is relatively scarce worldwide. Therefore, we are conducting research to make optical resolution a more user-friendly technology. For example, traditional methods often faced the problem of successfully obtaining only one type of molecule, either left or right. However, we have found a method that allows us to obtain both enantiomers simply by changing the solvent used. Additionally, we are working on developing methods to separate compounds that have been difficult to separate until now at a low cost, aiming to advance research towards methods that combine separation efficiency, versatility, and economic viability.

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Superconducting sensors have a sensitivity that cannot be achieved by other sensors. High sensitivity means that things that were previously invisible can now be seen. Although superconducting sensors have excellent performance, a drawback is that the effective area per pixel is small. To overcome this, the superconducting industry has focused on three-dimensional implementation, which is rarely pursued. Three-dimensional implementation involves stacking substrates that contain the devices in the vertical direction. The advantage of this is that, whereas devices could only be arranged in a plane, or two-dimensional space, the arrangement can now be extended in the height direction. While it is a simple structure, realizing it is quite challenging, and we are making progress in our research step by step while discussing it with students every day.

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We are conducting research to enhance the performance of optoelectronic devices using semiconductor microstructures at the nanometer scale (one billionth of a meter). For example, by utilizing structures called "quantum dots," which confine electrons in three-dimensional space within a very narrow region of about a dozen nanometers in a semiconductor, we can artificially adjust the energy of the confined electrons, thereby exhibiting excellent properties. By arranging numerous quantum dots within solar cells, these quantum dots can absorb light in wavelength ranges that are typically not absorbed, allowing us to efficiently convert the energy from sunlight, which has a broad spectrum, into electricity, significantly improving power generation efficiency. Such semiconductor nanostructures are expected to be applied not only in high-efficiency solar cells but also in high-brightness light-emitting devices and high-sensitivity sensors. To utilize them as actual devices, it is necessary to precisely control the shape, size, uniformity, and arrangement of the nanoscale structures and to fabricate them at high density, for which we are developing high-precision fabrication techniques for microstructures. Additionally, we are evaluating the properties of these materials using various spectroscopic measurement techniques.

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Perovskite refers to a type of crystal structure composed of halogen elements such as lead or tin combined with iodine or bromine, along with organic alkyl ammonium ions. The perovskite structure is used as the light-absorbing layer in perovskite solar cells. The perovskite layer, which can be formed easily and at low temperatures through a solution process, has a thickness of 0.3 μm, which is about 1/500th the thickness of single and multicrystalline silicon solar cells that typically range from 150 to 200 μm, making it resource-efficient. By utilizing the electrostatic interactions between poly-electrolytes and nanoparticles, as well as self-assembled monolayers of phosphoric compounds, it becomes possible to fabricate high-performance perovskite solar cells quickly and easily on textured transparent conductive films at low temperatures. Additionally, by adding fluorine-based materials with low surface free energy to the perovskite precursor and simply applying and heating it, the materials can spontaneously segregate to the perovskite surface, allowing for passivation of the perovskite surface. This leads to enhanced performance of the solar cells and promises improved durability.

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Many proteins in living organisms need to adopt precise structures to function as high-performance nanomachines. In vitro protein synthesis systems are an excellent technology for producing high-performance proteins. For example, animal proteins can be produced in vitro without killing the animals. Even in the case of infectious microorganisms and viruses that are dangerous to handle directly, as long as the DNA sequence information is available, it is possible to produce the desired protein in a safe environment. Currently, research is focused on membrane proteins and enzyme proteins, which are considered difficult to study in terms of their functions. Many membrane proteins are also drug targets, making them important for pharmaceutical and pesticide research. Additionally, many of them play crucial roles in controlling the transport of nutrients and metabolites into and out of cells as membrane transporters, and elucidating these functions has significant academic value. Enzyme proteins are ideal catalysts that can efficiently produce compounds found in nature at room temperature and pressure. By improving them in vitro, that is, through molecular evolution, it is also possible to create enzymes with more advanced functions.

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The cellulase complex "cellulosome" derived from anaerobic bacteria can efficiently decompose plant cell walls (biomass) and holds the potential to contribute to a circular society in the future. However, the production strains of cellulosomes are anaerobic, making cultivation difficult. Therefore, we are working on the secretion production of cellulosomes using Bacillus subtilis (a relative of natto bacteria), which has been studied alongside Escherichia coli for a long time and has accumulated various insights. There is also the possibility of secreting other useful proteins using Bacillus subtilis.

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mRNA is RNA that contains information for protein synthesis, but there are also many non-coding RNAs in the cell that do not carry messages. We have been elucidating the mechanisms by which immune responses to RNA virus infections are regulated by small non-coding RNAs called microRNAs. Understanding this mechanism may contribute to the development of novel nucleic acid medicines. Additionally, while siRNA also suppresses the expression of mRNA, siRNA has a suppressive effect on a single gene, whereas microRNA acts on entire specific gene groups. Although there are currently no nucleic acid medicines utilizing microRNA, we are hopeful that if the mechanisms of their action in virus-infected cells are clarified, the potential for nucleic acid medicines will expand even further.

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Sphingolipids are universally present in animals and plants, functioning as essential membrane lipids in cells. In some animals, such as humans, ceramides contained in sphingolipids serve as the main component of extracellular lipids in the stratum corneum, supporting the skin barrier function. As a result, ceramides have seen a rapid increase in demand as functional ingredients in basic skincare products and functional foods in recent years. Currently, plant-derived lipids are being used as a safe and inexpensive source of ceramides; however, plants contain very little free ceramide that is similar to that found in human skin, with most existing as less bioavailable glycosylceramides. We aim to develop metabolic engineering techniques to stably produce high-value ceramides by utilizing the functions of enzyme genes involved in the synthesis and degradation of plant glycosylceramides. Additionally, research is being conducted to modify the inherent sphingolipid functions of plants to enhance the accumulation of plant oils that can be used as biofuel materials and functional proteins in seeds.

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Within the body, numerous cells are at work, and one of the indicators used to examine their function (health status) is the membrane potential. For example, in the brain, information is transmitted by the firing of nerve cells, during which very small changes in membrane potential, such as 80 millivolts, occur. By capturing these potential changes, we can investigate the state of various organs, such as the brain and heart. Until now, the mainstream method has been to insert thin electrodes into the body to record data, but we are developing "membrane potential imaging" as an effective tool for non-invasive recording in living organisms. In recent years, there has been progress in the development of sensor proteins (membrane potential sensors) that can capture the membrane potential of cells as changes in brightness or color. We are using this novel membrane potential sensor in the transparent and living tropical fish, zebrafish, to investigate cellular activity (whether they are healthy or not) through live imaging.

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Living organisms age over time, but the actual timing varies. Is there something involved in "aging"? We have been elucidating this issue from the perspective of gene function. Experiments using the fruit fly have shown that most of it is related to the maintenance of mitochondria. Mitochondria are the powerhouses that generate energy for activity, but due to daily wear and tear, they develop defects that need to be removed. Mitochondria undergo repeated division and fusion to dispose of the defective parts. Additionally, many of the genes necessary for mitochondrial function are encoded in their own unique DNA, but sometimes there are significant deficiencies. When the genes responsible for properly maintaining mitochondria become abnormal, mitochondria can become dysfunctional, accelerating the aging process. By renewing the genes that lead to accelerated aging, we can contribute to research on the mechanisms of aging and potentially apply this knowledge to industrial crops that are key to increasing longevity.

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DNA, which carries the genetic information of living organisms, is exposed to various DNA-damaging factors. DNA damage can induce genetic mutations, leading to cancer, genetic diseases, and cellular aging. To protect themselves from these threats, organisms have acquired DNA damage repair mechanisms. This mechanism is present in almost all living organisms on Earth, from E. coli to plants and humans, and each organism builds a DNA repair system suitable for its survival strategy. I am working to elucidate the full extent of the DNA damage repair mechanisms possessed by non-human organisms by conducting basic research on DNA damage repair, mutation induction, and cellular aging using higher plants and microorganisms. In the future, I hope to apply the insights gained from this basic research to promote the growth of useful organisms and reduce diseases caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

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Gastrointestinal motility is intricately regulated by the brain-gut axis, which includes endocrine factors such as hormones, the autonomic nervous system, and the enteric nervous system. Among gastrointestinal motility, dysfunction of gastric contractions can lead to conditions such as bloating, functional gastrointestinal disorders, and diabetic gastroparesis. Since these conditions can decrease quality of life (QOL), elucidating the mechanisms of gastric motility and identifying factors that enhance or inhibit gastric motility have garnered attention from the perspectives of drug development and treatment methods. Rodents, such as mice and rats, are the most commonly used small experimental animals, but their gastrointestinal motility patterns differ significantly from those of humans. Research on gastrointestinal motility has primarily been conducted using dogs; however, due to their relatively large size and status as companion animals, research in this field has been delayed. Our laboratory has identified the insectivorous mammal, the tenrec, as a model for studying gastrointestinal motility and is conducting research on the regulation of gastric motility. So far, we have clarified the fundamental driving mechanisms of gastric contraction movements, which were previously unknown, including how gastrointestinal hormones such as motilin and ghrelin act cooperatively to stimulate strong gastric contractions, as well as the involvement of the vagus nerve, sympathetic nerves, and enteric nerves in gastric motility.

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The smallest structural unit of living organisms is the cell, which is covered by a cell membrane primarily composed of a lipid bilayer. This cell membrane functions as a barrier that separates the internal environment of the cell from the outside, while also contributing to the maintenance of life by allowing the uptake of molecules from the external environment as needed. In the special physiological functions of this cell membrane, the physical properties of the lipid bilayer, particularly its dynamics, are very important, and we believe that understanding the movement of lipids within the lipid bilayer will deepen our understanding of the cell membrane. In our laboratory, we are developing and applying new fluorescence spectroscopy methods to precisely analyze the movement of lipids within the lipid bilayer. We are conducting research daily with the aim of understanding the extraordinary functions of living organisms from the movements of small molecules that are invisible to the naked eye.

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Biomacromolecules have flexible structures, and their structures fluctuate. We are interested in how this dynamic structure (dynamics) relates to the functions of biomacromolecules. In particular, we want to clarify how the dynamics of biomacromolecules are influenced by the intracellular environment and lead to functional expression. Dynamics are difficult to determine from the average structure of multiple molecules observed in general spectroscopic measurements, and distinguishing observations of individual molecules is necessary. We modify the biomacromolecules of interest with fluorescent dyes and extract information originating from single molecules from the fluctuations of their fluorescent signals to analyze the dynamics of biomacromolecules. This method allows us to obtain detailed information in the time domain of 1/1,000,000 seconds to 1/1,000 seconds, which distinguishes it from other research. Using this method, we are developing methodologies to observe the effects of the crowded intracellular environment on the dynamics of nucleic acids and proteins, as well as methods for observing dynamics within cells.

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I am trying to create a method that can freely provide molecular materials capable of recognizing (binding to) any type of target molecule. I believe this is possible with DNA aptamers, which are DNA sequences that can recognize low to high molecular weight substances, cells, and more. To achieve this, I have established a method using capillary electrophoresis (CE), a separation technique, to rapidly and easily obtain aptamer sequences. In practice, I have demonstrated that it is possible to isolate and acquire (select) only the DNA that strongly binds to targets from mixtures of various types of DNA sequences and targets such as proteins, animal cells, and bacterial cells using CE. Additionally, I have already succeeded in developing high-functionality sequences through machine learning analysis of the obtained sequences and in creating molecules that exhibit high pharmacological activity by linking multiple aptamers. I believe that if molecular recognition elements can be obtained freely in this way, it will enable a wide range of applications, including the development of nucleic acid-based drugs, diagnostic reagents, and separation materials.

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Various types of sugars exist within living organisms. Each of these plays an essential role in maintaining life and is constantly circulating within the body. Therefore, an imbalance of sugars in the body directly leads to serious diseases that threaten us today (e.g., diabetes). In other words, the development of technology to measure sugar levels is crucial for the early detection of bodily disorders. To develop such technology, I am designing "analytical reagents," which are molecules that glow when they bind to sugars. In my research, I am developing analytical reagents with a simple structure and excellent detection capabilities by using various frameworks (organic dyes, metal complexes, supramolecular complexes, nanoparticles, etc.) as a foundation (Figure 1). So far, I have successfully developed a supramolecular complex-type analytical reagent that specifically fluoresces for D-glucose (blood sugar) among the numerous sugars (Figure 2). I believe that this technology will lead to the development of a diagnostic system for the early detection of diabetes.

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Biological organisms are capable of flexible movement, and the power source for this movement is motor proteins. Each molecule moves only a few nanometers, but an immense number of molecules act cooperatively to enable organisms to achieve a wide range of movements, from bacteria to whales. Using purified motor proteins, "microtubules and kinesin," we are developing "motion gel" materials that exhibit fluctuating motion at the micrometer scale, larger than molecules (nanometers), by bridging and moving them in a network structure. We are conducting research to apply the "ability of motion gel to shake small objects" in biomedical engineering. We are focusing on the fact that the environment surrounding cells in living organisms also "fluctuates" at the micrometer scale, and we aim to create an environment that actively generates fluctuations to capture the unknown behaviors and potential of cells. In the future, it may be possible to classify and predict cancer metastasis based on the patterns of movement of cancer cells.

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We aim to non-invasively visualize the functions and dysfunctions of biological entities for disease diagnosis, toxicity testing, and active ingredient screening. Utilizing live cell imaging and flow cytometry for high-speed analysis, we are developing an analytical system comparable to animal experiments. We create non-invasive sensor molecules that detect chemical reactions and physical interactions occurring in vivo, introduce them into cells, expose them to harmful or effective substances, and detect the sensor's response using light (fluorescence). We are establishing testing methods for the toxicity of anticancer drugs, air pollutants, and the efficacy of quasi-drugs. On the other hand, we are also advancing the production of nanocapsules composed of disease-targeting sensor molecules. All production is conducted under physiological conditions, aiming for a cocktail delivery system that combines conventional synthetic pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals. The sensor molecules are used to monitor the delivery situation. Furthermore, we are also working on constructing an external discharge system for harmful substances accumulated in the body due to metabolic disorders and a discharge system.

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Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to grow, serving as biomass that contributes to decarbonization. A portion of the absorbed carbon dioxide is utilized in the cell walls. In the xylem, which is composed of vessel elements and fiber cells, a thickened secondary cell wall is formed inside the normal cell wall. Since the majority of the biomass of trees, which have the largest biomass above ground, consists of xylem, it can be said that the secondary cell wall is the substance of tree biomass. Furthermore, the secondary cell wall is primarily composed of polymer compounds such as cellulose and lignin, which are also attracting attention as materials for bioethanol and biopolymers. The formation of the secondary cell wall involves many genes. We have identified key genes that control the entire process of secondary cell wall formation and have elucidated their molecular functions. Utilizing the insights gained, we are also working on creating useful plants for lignocellulosic biomass utilization by employing genome editing technologies to modify specific gene information.

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The structure formed by sugars like glucose linked together in a chain is called a glycan, and a glycan made up of a few sugars is referred to as an oligosaccharide. The structure of these glycans determines blood types such as type A and type B! Additionally, glycans are involved in infections caused by viruses like influenza. Various glycans are actively functioning in our daily lives. Although there is no medical department, we conduct research and development in drug discovery related to detection, diagnosis, and treatment from an engineering and science perspective. When considering each cell in our body as a giant molecule, it appears that many functional substances (glycans and proteins) are presented on its surface. Therefore, we have discovered that by artificially gathering functional substances to create multivalent (cluster-type) compounds, we can produce substances with enhanced activity. Currently, we are conducting research and development aimed at creating functional substances and inducing multivalent compounds, leading to new drug discovery.

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Viruses are extremely small and colorless, so it is impossible to tell with the naked eye whether they are present or not. We have developed a molecule that emits light when exposed to ultraviolet radiation five minutes after being mixed with a sample, indicating the presence of the viruses we want to investigate. This molecule does not emit light when the target virus is absent or when there are non-target viruses present, allowing for the "visualization" of the viruses and microorganisms we wish to examine. In tests for detecting the influenza virus using this molecule, it has been found to have a sensitivity that is 1,000 times higher than commercially available immunochromatography kits. Additionally, we have successfully developed highly bright fluorescent beads with a quantum yield of up to 90%. These beads not only shine several times brighter than conventional fluorescent dye-based beads but also possess stability against light, making them highly practical. By attaching antibodies to these high-brightness fluorescent beads, we can expect increased sensitivity when used as labeled antibodies in immunochromatography kits or as markers for lesions. We have prototyped an immunochromatography kit for the novel coronavirus and found that it can achieve significantly higher sensitivity compared to existing products. This technology can also be applied to the detection of other viruses and pathogens.

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The proverb "When three people gather, the wisdom of Monju" is often heard in our daily lives. Did you know that the power of groups exists even at the molecular level? Glycans facilitate intercellular communication by binding to glycan receptors, but individual glycans have only weak binding strength. However, when multiple glycans come together, their effect far exceeds simple addition, sometimes exhibiting astonishing powers that can be hundreds to hundreds of thousands of times greater. This is called the "multivalency effect." The characteristic of our research is to artificially replicate and further enhance this clever mechanism found in nature. We design artificial molecules that accumulate various molecules, such as glycans and next-generation antibodies, and investigate their interactions in detail. By effectively utilizing the power of molecular cooperation, we hope to contribute to the future of medicine.

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Many life phenomena, including various diseases, are caused by biomolecules such as proteins, and observing molecular structures and dynamics in the microscopic realm is crucial for understanding these phenomena and for fundamental treatments of diseases. Molecular dynamics simulation is a technique that allows for the "direct" observation of microscopic behavior by reconstructing biomolecular models with atomic resolution in a computer and moving the molecules according to physical laws. Coupled with the computational power of computers, this technique has developed to the point where it is referred to as a computational microscope and is actively used as a method to complement experiments. However, there are two challenges to contributing to drug discovery and materials development: "too much computation time" and "limitations in model accuracy." To address the first challenge, we are working on introducing efficient algorithms to predict loop structures of next-generation antibodies in a shorter time. For the second challenge, we are developing methods that integrate experimental data and simulations using statistical mathematics and machine learning to achieve more accurate observations.

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Smartphones have become the most accessible devices for everyday photography, allowing users to complete the entire process of shooting, editing, and sharing within a single device. I aim to enhance the photographic experience in mobile cameras by utilizing AI-based image processing technology. Traditionally, small cameras like those in smartphones had limitations in image quality and color reproduction due to the physical size of their lenses and sensors. However, modern smartphones are equipped with high computational power, enabling real-time complex image processing using AI. This allows even small cameras like smartphones to capture very beautiful photos. Furthermore, AI technology is bringing innovation to post-capture image editing. For example, by using image transformation techniques, it is possible to change the apparent material of an object captured in a photo to another material that aligns with the user's intent.

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My research fields span aesthetics, art studies, color theory, and contemporary faith theory. Among these, I am particularly focused on research in aesthetics, which is a branch of philosophy. Aesthetics can be described as the philosophy of sensibility. Sensibility refers to things that can be clearly recognized but cannot be explained. For example, the concept of beauty certainly exists as a common understanding among people, but the question of "why something that feels beautiful is beautiful" cannot be clearly explained. Aesthetics involves deep contemplation of such matters. The results of research in aesthetics have the potential to exert a significant influence on the world. For instance, religion and politics are perceived differently depending on one's position. However, the beauty of art, such as music, painting, novels, and poetry, is something that can be felt similarly regardless of differing positions. In other words, if research in aesthetics can clarify "what beauty is," it may enable a very strong dissemination of the information one wishes to convey.

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