日本語
Cellular Function Analysis
Research Group
Research Outline
We develop technologies for highly sensitive evaluation of diverse biological responses by utilizing cells as “sensors” of biological functions. Based on analytical systems using bioluminescent reporter cells and olfactory receptors, we conduct research on the evaluation of functional materials, elucidation of mechanisms of action, and investigation of cancer metastasis and novel physiological functions. Through these efforts, we aim to contribute to the fields of health, medicine, and food science.
Research Introduction
Cell Response-Driven Platform for Biological Function Analysis and Functional Component Discovery
We harness cellular responses to reveal biological functions. Using advanced cell-based platforms—such as luminescent reporter cells and olfactory receptor assays—we enable sensitive and quantitative evaluation of bioactivity in natural materials and nanoparticles. Our approach uncovers mechanisms of action, including immune modulation, and identifies key bioactive compounds. We also investigate cancer-related processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition EMT and novel functions mediated by olfactory receptors. These insights drive innovation in healthcare and food applications.
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Social Implementation of Research Outcomes
Through the scientific evaluation of functional food ingredients, we support product development in collaboration with industry. We have analyzed and evaluated functional ingredients found in regional resources, including persimmon leaves and wheat germ, thereby contributing to the development of higher-value products.
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Functional Evaluation and Collaborative Research
Examples: Persimmon leaf-based products and wheat flour products
Members
ABE Hiroko, Ph.D.
- Position
- Group Leader
- Location
- AIST Shikoku
- Research Profiles
- Research Theme
-
- Development of yeast strains with enhanced immunostimulatory effects
- Screening of naturally derived components with immunomodulatory functions
- Development of yeast for the production of functional glycoproteins
NAKAJIMA Yoshihiro, Ph.D.
- Position
- Chief Senior Researcher
- Location
- AIST Shikoku
- Research Profiles
- Research Theme
-
- Mechanistic analysis of cellular stress responses
- Development of cell-based assay systems using luminescent reporters
- Construction of evaluation systems for toxicity, food functionality, and pharmacological efficacy
TABEI Yosuke, Ph.D.
- Position
- Senior Researcher
- Location
- AIST Shikoku
- Research Profiles
- Research Theme
-
- Elucidation of mechanisms underlying nanoparticle-induced toxicity
- Development of technologies for evaluating the biological effects of nanoparticles
- Elucidation of mechanisms that inhibit efferocytosis
SHIOTA Yusuke, Ph.D.
- Position
- Senior Researcher
- Location
- AIST Shikoku
- Research Theme
-
- Development of healthcare technologies mediated by olfactory receptors expressed outside the nose
- Odor sensing and the physiological activity of olfactory receptors
- Development of technologies for substance discovery and evaluation
MIYATA Ryo, Ph.D.
- Research Theme
-
- Visualization of chemical space in food materials using network analysis
- Determination of the chemical structures of functional components in food materials using instrumental analysis
- Evaluation of the physiological activity of functional food materials
Research Groups
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