一般財団法人材料科学技術振興財団　MST Product Lineup

Our organization conducts evaluations of molecular permeability to lipid bilayers using molecular dynamics simulations. The free energy obtained from molecular dynamics calculations is an important value that contributes not only to predicting the stability of the system but also to understanding the material distribution and transport phenomena in systems with spatial and temporal fluctuations. For example, it is effective in gaining insights into the permeability of molecules across biological membranes. Using lipid bilayers in aqueous solvents as an example, we will introduce a case where the permeability of molecules in the membrane was discussed based on the free energy values when benzene and carbon dioxide were transported. [Measurement Methods and Processing Techniques] ■ Computational Science, AI, Data Analysis *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

Our organization conducts calculations of acid dissociation constants (pKa) using quantum chemistry. The acid dissociation constant (pKa) is one of the indicators that quantitatively represents the strength of an acid (the ease of proton dissociation). Knowing the pKa helps in estimating the solubility of compounds in relation to pH, their state, the ease of absorption of pharmaceuticals in the body, and pH buffering effects. Using the acid dissociation energy differences obtained from quantum chemical calculations and experimental pKa values, we create calibration curves for different solvents and functional groups, and present examples of studies investigating the impact of intramolecular hydrogen bonding on pKa. [Measurement Methods and Processing Methods] ■ Computational Science, AI, Data Analysis *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

Our organization conducts evaluations of the hierarchical structure of polymer materials using X-ray diffraction and scattering techniques. It is known that the differences in higher-order structures created by amphiphilic substances affect the moisturizing and permeability properties of skin tissue, making it important to understand these structures in order to evaluate the functionality of the materials. We will introduce examples of evaluating the hierarchical structure of polymers using XRD (X-ray diffraction) for structures on the order of a few nanometers and SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) for structures on the order of several tens of nanometers. 【Measurement and Processing Methods】 ■ [XRD] X-ray Diffraction ■ [SAXS] Small-Angle X-ray Scattering *For more details, please download the PDF or feel free to contact us.

TOF-SIMS analysis allows for detailed examination of the sample's outermost surface, as well as the ability to obtain information in the depth direction, making it possible to understand the distribution of components within the material. Additionally, imaging can visualize the spatial distribution of components. This document includes case studies of products analyzed from various fields. Please feel free to contact us!

The measurement of bacterial counts conducted in food bacterial testing is calculated by culturing and counting the number of colonies. However, this method requires time for culturing and cannot evaluate difficult-to-culture bacteria. On the other hand, the real-time PCR method allows for the direct extraction of DNA from samples without culturing, enabling the investigation of the quantity of the target bacteria (DNA copy number). This document presents a case study comparing the bacterial counts obtained through culturing the easily cultured Escherichia coli and the copy numbers measured using the real-time PCR method.

The surface of human hair (hair) is covered with a lipid called 18-methyl eicosanoic acid (18-MEA). The surface of animal fur (coat) is believed to contain various lipids secreted from sebaceous glands, not limited to 18-MEA. Additionally, a decrease in linoleic acid has been reported in the sebum of animals with skin diseases. Therefore, simultaneously analyzing the representative lipid 18-MEA along with several other components is useful for understanding the condition of the hair. This document presents the results of evaluating the differences in lipids for each type of animal (pet) using TOF-SIMS.