It is a well known fact that cell reproduction through mitosis and binary fission is essential for an organism to grow, however, the processes involved in cell division is not completely understood. Through the use of simple cells, such as yeast and animal cells, we know much of the process is due to contraction done by actin and myosin, however, further clarification is necessary.

Many factors damage genes, including ultra-violet radiation from the sun. Such damage obstructs DNA replication and transcription, sometimes leading to cancer or cell death. On the other hand, the human genome has evolved genes that have the capacity to repair this damage through a host of mechanisms broadly referred to as DNA repair and translesion synthesis. In our laboratory, we have been studying these mechanisms intensively in the hope of finding ways to counteract cancer and other diseases caused by damage to DNA.

How does an organism's brain develop from a fertilized egg to its mature form? In one region of an animal embryo, we have known that there is a command given for the brain to start developing. Recently, however, it has become apparent that a certain type of protein plays a critical role in the signaling. We aim to show how exactly this protein functions in the brain during these developmental stages.

We conduct molecular scale research on the effects of biological molecules, such as protein and DNA, acting on the body. Through genomic engineering, we make E. coli create a desired protein, and investigate the structure and properties of this protein using physical and chemical methods.

Animal longevity is determined by homeostasis in various organs and tissues through cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and apoptosis (cell death) to control the numbers of old cells and new ones. Depending on how efficiently these three steps are taken is what determines one's lifespan. Using fruit flies, which are perfect for genetics research, we are investigating genetic basis of these processes.

Plants not only use light for photosynthesis, but also use it to obtain information of the outside world. We aim to clarify how plants use light absorbed by their light receptors as information to control growth and cell specilization by investigating the genes of a model Arabidopsis.

In the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane, a variety of physiological functions rely on membrane proteins. Because these proteins are insoluble, it is difficult to obtain their 3-D structural information. Focusing on membrane proteins for visual function, we use X-rays to obtain their high-resolution structure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In what ways does organic chemistry affect our lives? You can probably think of many applications in food products, medicine, and common household electronics. Basing research off newly developed organic synthetic reactions, we aim to fabricate artificial enzyme inhibitors that will help treat cancer.

Found in mitochondria located within the cell, exists the world's smallest motor. Spinning about its axis, ATP synthase measures a mere 100,000th of 1 mm. Just a single molecule functions as a motor. We are now trying to solve the mystery behind this tiny enzyme motor by applying newly discovered methods involving laser microscopy.