Lead Biomolecule Research Group
Introduction to research
We are dedicated to establishing a sustainable foundation for industrial resources and next-generation technologies by exploring new materials derived from living organisms that have previously been underutilized. Through our research into novel biomolecules and the modification of these materials, we aim to create bio-derived innovations that contribute to human health and community well-being.
1. Studying New Bio-Derived Materials for Industrial Applications
A single-celled organism Euglena stores excess metabolic products from photosynthesis and nutrients in the form of β1,3-glucan, known as paramylon. These cells accumulate large quantities of paramylon, sometimes occupying more than half of their cellular volume as many intracellular granules. Paramylon has gained attention as a promising material for a variety of applications, including healthcare products, plastic resins, and fuels, due to its simple purification process through large-scale culturing of Euglena. Our research group is focused on exploring and modifying such bio-derived molecules to develop novel, eco-friendly industrial materials.
2. Studying Chemical/Biological Modifications of Bio-Derived Molecules for Industrial Use
We are enhancing bio-derived molecules by adding new functionalities to create innovative industrial materials. This includes the development of protein conjugates that can regulate association and dissociation, methods to introduce biomolecules into materials with poor bio-affinity, enzymes with improved heat resistance for industrial applications, and polymers with functional molecules that enhance their biodegradability and compatibility with natural environments.
3. Development of New Optical Methods to Screen the Functions of Unknown Bio-Molecules
To identify biomolecules with industrially relevant properties, such as enzymes capable of degrading plastics or microalgae that produce fuels, our group is developing advanced optical methods to rapidly and quantitatively screen these molecules. Our approach offers high specificity and sensitivity, enabling the discovery of bio-molecules with significant industrial potential.
List of Publications
Staff：
- Tomomi Tani(Research Group Leader)
- Norioki Kawasaki
- Shohei Mine
- Hideto Hoshino
- Tomoki Himiyama
- Kentaro Akiyama