Applied Chemistry and Bioengineering

We focus on the design, synthesis and characterization of advanced inorganic materials as well as the fabrication of “storage batteries”, “artificial photosynthesis systems” and “fuel cells” to mitigate energy and environmental issues. We aim to improve the electrochemical and catalytic activity of materials by designing the structure of metal oxides and metal complexes at the atomic, molecular or nano-sized scale.

We are working on development and applied research regarding methods for microscopic · microanalysis. Recently, we successfully visualized a three-dimensional distribution of the elements of various samples by applying X-ray analysis technology. We use this method for precise analysis of environmental samples, biological samples, samples that are cultural assets, and discriminant materials.

We are developing high performance of organic materials and polymer materials with new functionality that cannot be achieved by conventional method. Our research interests involve evaluation of compatibility as well as the crystal structure of multi-component polymers, conductivity of filler dispersed polymers, chemical reaction of active species with polymer, and photosensitive polymers, synthesis of an environmentally friendly, organometal catalyst.

We are designing functional molecules based on controlled polymerization and precise control of polymer reactions, and their application to the development of smart materials that can not be achieved by conventional polymer materials. We are also working on their application to dismantlable materials and stimuli-responsive materials, which are one of the most promising materials for energy saving and resource saving.

We are researching the synthesis and properties of optically functional organic materials which are expected to become the materials of the next generation. These materials can be used as optical memory elements, display elements, optical sensors, thermosensors, photo actuators, and more. We are also working on the development of new elemental materials for displays, organic light emitting materials, and more.

We are researching environmentally friendly chemical processes that use high pressure based technology. We are also working on the detoxification of environmental pollutants with subcritical / supercritical fluid, developing an understanding of the physical properties and functions of food and biological substances under high pressure, and on the chemical conversion of biomass by photocatalysts.

We are working on the utilization of woody biomass. Especially, we are focusing on the application of lignin separated from the biomass by hydrothermal treatment. We are also working on the improvement of the crystallization process widely used in the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and chemicals.

We focus on the development of medical materials including anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-cancer drugs, and materials used for their delivery. An example of this would be our work on the development of useful tools for the medical field. For example, we are working on the development of tools that are useful in the medical field, such as new hemostatic agents that instantly gelate to cover areas that are bleeding as well as ginger-derived compounds that have the effect of suppressing inflammation caused by skin diseases.

We research proteins on the basis of genetic engineering. We also produce artificial proteins useful for humans by rewriting the blueprints of the proteins using techniques derived from genetic engineering. The results of this research can be used for the development of antibody drugs used to fight cancer as well as for antibiotics used against pathogenic microorganisms.

We are moving from the field of engineering towards the realization of “regenerative medicine”, which treats diseases with tissue cells made from iPS, as well as other cell types. We are also developing “nucleic acid drugs” such as the world’s first microRNA inhibitor LidNA, made from high performance microRNA and DNA.

We are searching for microorganisms with new functions as well as constructing artificial functional cells using yeast and E. coli as model microorganisms. Our goal is to provide results contributing to the bioindustry, as well as promote understanding of the still mysterious microbial cells, with the hope of expanding their use to the field of engineering.

Our goal is to establish the new technology for the production of monoclonal antibodies, using genome editing and other biotechnologies, with the aim of creating high performance biopharmaceuticals. We are also developing the unique methods of antibody utilization that have never been tried before.

We are working on the development of solid catalysts and photo catalysts that can help solve environmental and energy problems. Our goal is to construct an environmentally friendly chemical reaction system, including the development of artificial photosynthesis. We also analyze various physical properties, using a range of spectroscopic methods, and design materials at the molecular and nano levels, in order to create excellent solid catalysts.