东京大学、京都大学、大阪大学等日本QS前10名大学的研究室信息。
Professor Daisuke Motooka's research lab specializes in virology and structural immunology, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of viral immune evasion, particularly in SARS-CoV-2. The lab investigates how viral variants, such as Omicron, evade neutralizing antibodies from vaccines and natural infection using pseudovirus systems and chimeric spike proteins. Their work provides critical insights into the structural basis of immune escape and informs the development of next-generation therapeutics and vaccines. The lab also explores host-pathogen interactions at the structural and functional levels to understand viral pathogenesis and transmission.
Professor Takashiro Tsukamoto's research lab specializes in advanced microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) gyroscopes, focusing on fully differential and rate-integrating gyroscopes that utilize independently controlled clockwise (CW) and counter-clockwise (CCW) vibrational modes on a single resonator. The lab develops innovative signal processing and control techniques—such as phase and amplitude compensation for frequency and Q-factor mismatches—to achieve high linearity, low temperature sensitivity, and exceptional stability in angular rate and angle measurements. Key innovations include mode separation using ring resonators, FPGA-based control systems, and virtual rotation techniques to resolve angle locking phenomena.
Professor Takeharu Yoshii's research lab specializes in the design and development of advanced nanomaterials for sustainable catalysis, with a focus on noble metal nanoparticles (particularly Pd and Au) supported on carbon-based and 2D materials. The lab explores structure–activity relationships in heterogeneous catalysis, emphasizing the role of surface ligands, metal–support interactions, and plasmonic effects in enhancing selectivity and activity for key organic transformations. Major research directions include selective hydrogenation, oxidative dehydrogenation, and plasmon-driven reactions, often combining experimental characterization with computational methods such as DFT. The lab also develops novel carbon frameworks with atomic-level precision for applications in electrocatalysis and energy conversion.
Professor K. Miwa's research lab specializes in experimental hadron physics, focusing on strangeness physics and the study of baryon resonances using high-energy hadron beams. The lab conducts precision measurements of hyperon and baryon reactions, such as Σ⁻p→Λn and K⁺p→π⁺X, to explore the structure of baryons and search for exotic states like the Θ⁺ pentaquark. Their work primarily utilizes high-intensity beams at facilities like J-PARC and KEK, emphasizing accurate differential cross section measurements and missing mass spectroscopy. The lab contributes significantly to understanding the strong interaction dynamics in the baryon sector through high-precision experimental techniques and data analysis.
Professor Pan Liu's research lab specializes in materials science and corrosion engineering, with a strong focus on sustainable materials development and corrosion mechanisms in harsh environments. The lab investigates advanced functional materials such as MoS₂-based hydrogels for solar-driven seawater desalination, sintered die-attach materials for offshore power modules, and magnesium oxychloride cements from industrial byproducts. A central theme is understanding and mitigating localized and microbial-induced corrosion, particularly in marine and high-humidity environments, using advanced characterization techniques and innovative material design strategies.
Professor Katsuya Gomi's research lab specializes in molecular mycology and fungal biotechnology, focusing on the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying industrial enzyme production and antifungal drug resistance in filamentous fungi, particularly *Aspergillus oryzae* and *Aspergillus fumigatus*. The lab investigates transcriptional regulation of key metabolic pathways, including amylolytic and ergosterol biosynthesis genes, using functional genomics and molecular genetics approaches. A central theme is understanding how transcription factors such as AmyR, MalR, FlbC, and AtrR control gene expression in response to environmental cues and stress, with applications in improving industrial fermentation and combating antifungal resistance. The lab also explores fungal transformation and gene integration mechanisms to support genetic manipulation of industrially relevant fungi.
Professor Kentaro Tanaka's research lab specializes in supramolecular chemistry and bioorganic chemistry, focusing on the design and synthesis of functional molecular systems for advanced materials and biotechnological applications. Key research directions include the development of metal-mediated DNA base pairing for stabilizing nucleic acid structures, the creation of giant macrocyclic and columnar liquid crystalline architectures with precise nanoscale cavities, and the construction of supramolecular cages for selective recognition of fullerenes and other nanomaterials. The lab also explores catalytic systems based on porphyrin and phthalocyanine conjugates for efficient oxygen reduction, highlighting applications in energy conversion and sustainable chemistry.
Professor Daisuke Sugiura's research lab focuses on plant physiological ecology, particularly the regulation of whole-plant growth and resource allocation in response to environmental factors such as light, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. The lab investigates how hormonal signals (gibberellins and cytokinins), sink-source relationships, and anatomical changes—especially in cell wall structure—affect photosynthesis, biomass allocation, and leaf morphology. A central theme is understanding the mechanisms behind photosynthetic downregulation under high non-structural carbohydrate (TNC) accumulation, including both biochemical (e.g., Rubisco reduction) and anatomical factors (e.g., mesophyll conductance limitation).
Professor Keitaro Matsuo's research lab focuses on the genetic and environmental determinants of hematological malignancies and gastrointestinal cancers, with a particular emphasis on gene-environment interactions. The lab investigates the role of genetic polymorphisms—such as those in ALDH2, MTHFR, and methionine synthase—in modifying disease susceptibility, especially in relation to alcohol metabolism and folate metabolism. Using population-based and hospital-based case-control studies, the lab aims to clarify the etiological links between metabolic enzymes, viral infections (e.g., hepatitis C virus), and lymphomagenesis. Their work contributes to understanding the molecular basis of cancer risk and supports the development of personalized prevention strategies.
Professor Tohru Hira's research lab specializes in gastrointestinal endocrinology, focusing on the role of dietary peptides and proteins in regulating gut hormone secretion. The lab investigates how specific protein hydrolysates—such as those derived from zein and rice proteins—stimulate the release of incretin hormones like GLP-1 and CCK, which play key roles in glucose homeostasis and satiety. A central theme is the identification of nutrient-sensing mechanisms in enteroendocrine cells, particularly the involvement of receptors such as the calcium-sensing receptor (CaR) in detecting dietary amino acids. The lab also explores the impact of dietary patterns, including high-fat and high-sugar diets, on postprandial hormonal responses and metabolic health.
Professor Ryota Uehara's research lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying mitotic spindle assembly, central spindle formation, and cytokinesis in animal cells. The lab investigates the roles of microtubule-associated proteins, such as augmin and Kif2A, in regulating microtubule dynamics and stability during cell division. A key interest is understanding how ploidy levels affect centrosome integrity and cell cycle fidelity, with implications for genomic instability and cancer. The lab also pioneers optogenetic tools, such as photoswitchable inhibitors, to achieve precise spatiotemporal control of mitotic regulators.
Professor Takehiro Noji's research lab specializes in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, with a focus on surgical management and prognostic factors in biliary tract and gastrointestinal cancers. The lab investigates preoperative imaging modalities—particularly CT—for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning in complex hepatopancreatobiliary conditions such as hilar cholangiocarcinoma, pancreaticobiliary malignancies, and vascular involvement. Key research directions include identifying resectable candidates, evaluating the impact of extramural lymph node involvement, and assessing the feasibility and outcomes of surgery for late-onset colorectal recurrence after gastric cancer. The lab emphasizes evidence-based surgical decision-making to improve patient survival and quality of life.
Professor Kenji Monde's research lab specializes in the structural elucidation and biosynthesis of natural products, with a focus on complex organic molecules such as phytoalexins, organochlorine compounds, and carbohydrates. The lab uniquely combines advanced spectroscopic techniques—particularly vibrational circular dichroism (VCD)—with theoretical calculations and biochemical studies to determine absolute configurations and reaction mechanisms in solution. A key contribution is the development of the 'glycoside band' in VCD spectroscopy, enabling precise analysis of carbohydrate anomeric configurations. The lab also investigates the enzymatic biosynthesis of natural pesticides, especially in plants like *Lilium maximowiczii*, revealing novel chlorination pathways in higher plants.
Professor Kumiko Yoshimatsu's research lab focuses on molecular oncology and cancer biology, with a particular emphasis on identifying novel antitumor agents and understanding the role of key enzymes in carcinogenesis. The lab investigates sulfonamide-based compounds like E7010 as potential anticancer therapeutics and explores the enzymatic pathways involving prostaglandin E synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 in non-small cell lung cancer. Additionally, the lab contributes to understanding the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu), especially in endemic regions like Sri Lanka. Their work integrates biochemical, cellular, and translational approaches to uncover disease mechanisms and develop targeted therapies.
Professor Pavel Sidorov's research lab specializes in computational chemistry and cheminformatics, focusing on the development and application of machine learning and quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) models for drug discovery. The lab investigates drug combination synergy in cancer treatment using large-scale datasets like NCI-ALMANAC, while also exploring antimalarial drug design through physicochemical property modeling and reaction pathway analysis. A key focus is on creating robust data management and modeling tools, such as RePathDB for reaction pathway data and DOPtools for descriptor calculation and model optimization. The lab integrates quantum chemical calculations with machine learning to predict biological activity, mode of action, and molecular properties across diverse chemical spaces.
Professor Hayato Takahashi's research lab focuses on the immunological mechanisms underlying autoimmune diseases, particularly pemphigus vulgaris, a severe blistering disorder driven by autoantibodies against desmoglein 3. The lab investigates the roles of antigen-specific T cells and B cell interactions in autoimmunity, using innovative mouse models to dissect the pathogenicity of T cell clones and the induction of autoantibody production. They also explore peripheral tolerance mechanisms and the interplay between autoimmunity and viral reactivation, such as in drug-induced hypersensitivity syndrome. Their work bridges basic immunology with clinical pathology, offering insights into disease pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Professor Tohru Yamada's research lab specializes in the development of transition metal-catalyzed organic transformations, with a strong focus on the sustainable utilization of small molecules such as carbon dioxide and molecular oxygen. The lab pioneers mild and selective catalytic methods for C–C and C–O bond formation, particularly in the synthesis of valuable heterocyclic and carbonyl compounds. Key research directions include silver- and nickel-catalyzed reactions for carboxylation, epoxidation, and Baeyer–Villiger oxidation, often employing O₂ or CO₂ as green oxidants under ambient conditions. The group also emphasizes enantioselective transformations, contributing to the efficient synthesis of chiral building blocks for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals.
Professor Masaru Mimura's research lab specializes in cognitive neuroscience and neurolinguistics, focusing on the neural mechanisms underlying language recovery after stroke and the cognitive deficits associated with brain injury. The lab investigates how cerebral blood flow changes correlate with post-stroke aphasia recovery using neuroimaging techniques such as SPECT, and explores time perception and memory impairments in patients with frontal lobe damage or Korsakoff’s syndrome. A central theme is understanding the interplay between working memory, episodic memory, and temporal cognition in neurological disorders. The lab combines clinical assessments with advanced neuroimaging to uncover brain-behavior relationships in patients with acquired brain injuries.
Professor Mamoru Shibata's research lab focuses on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury, with a particular emphasis on Huntington’s disease, ischemic stroke, and migraine. The lab investigates key pathways involving autophagy, neuronal death, microglial activation, and ion channel signaling in neurological disorders. Using advanced genetic models and in vivo techniques, the lab explores how protein aggregation, excitotoxicity, and neuroinflammation contribute to neuronal dysfunction and degeneration.
Professor Kotaro Shimizu's research lab specializes in topological quantum phenomena in condensed matter systems, with a focus on emergent electromagnetic fields, spin textures, and their interplay with electronic transport and optical responses. The lab investigates the design and control of complex magnetic structures—such as skyrmions, hedgehogs, and vortex lattices—through the superposition of spin helices and modulation of magnetic anisotropy. By combining theoretical modeling, variational calculations, and Berry phase effects, the group explores how spin topology can be engineered for novel quantum devices and topological electronics.
