Biosystems Engineering Research Group
Introduction to research
We are currently working with the studies of functional proteins and bioactive peptides that regulate brain development and function. The ultimate goal of our researches is also to contribute drug development by using these functional materials. For further detail of each research is described as follows.
1. Functional analysis of epigenetic factors regulating brain development and function
The aim of this research is to elucidate the role of Epigenetics, such as DNA methylation and chromatin modification, in brain development and function, and to contribute the development of the clinical materials for neurological and psychiatric disorders (Figure 1).
Fig 1. Functional analysis of epigenetic factors regulating brain development and function
2. Identification and directed evolution of bioactive peptides
Bioactive peptides of venomous animals have evolved at an accelerated rate, and have diverse structures. Some of the peptides regulate the neural function. To date, we have identified many bioactive peptides from the venomous animals such as snakes and ants. Recently, we have succeeded in modifying these peptides to give a new function using the directed evolution technology (Figure 2)
Fig 2. Identification and directed evolution of bioactive peptides
3. Molecular and cellular analysis of neural induction in ascidians
The aim of this research is to elucidate cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neural development in ascidians which are closely related to vertebrates and share a basic body plan with vertebrates. Based on this research, we also aim to reconstruct a gene regulatory network in ascidian neural development (Figure 3).
Fig 3. Molecular and cellular analysis of neural induction in ascidians
List of Publications
Staff：
- Kazutoshi Murotomi (Research Group Leader)
- Masakazu Namihira
- Tourlousse Dieter
- Hidetoshi Inagaki
- Yukio Ohtsuka
- Takashi Hayashi
- Yuki Shimizu