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 Shinji Masuda's research lab specializes in the molecular mechanisms of blue-light sensing in bacteria and algae, with a focus on the structure, function, and photochemistry of BLUF (sensor of blue light using FAD) domains. The lab investigates how these flavin-binding proteins undergo subtle structural changes upon light absorption to regulate gene expression, using biophysical and spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR difference spectroscopy and site-directed mutagenesis. A key research direction involves understanding the redox regulation of transcriptional regulators in photosynthetic bacteria, including oxygen- and sulfide-responsive repressors that control photosystem synthesis and metabolic adaptation.
Professor Tadahiro Komeda's research lab specializes in molecular spintronics and single-molecule phenomena, focusing on the manipulation and characterization of individual magnetic molecules on surfaces using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy. The lab investigates spin states, Kondo resonances, and electron-induced molecular dynamics—particularly in rare-earth double-decker complexes like TbPc₂—exploring their potential for quantum information processing and nanoscale spin control. A central theme is the interplay between molecular structure, electronic states, and substrate interactions, with a strong emphasis on real-space imaging and in-situ manipulation at the atomic scale.
Professor Yusuke Sato's research lab specializes in the development of novel fluorescent probes and sensing systems for biomolecular detection, with a focus on nucleic acid structures such as abasic sites, mismatches, and exosomes. The lab explores the selective binding of small molecules—particularly substituted 1,8-naphthyridines and amiloride derivatives—to DNA and RNA motifs, leveraging fluorescence responses for sensitive, label-free detection. A key direction involves designing 'off-on' fluorescence probes based on molecular beacons, self-assembling peptides, and cyanine dye conjugates for applications in microRNA sensing and exosome analysis. The lab also investigates the thermodynamics and structural basis of ligand-nucleic acid interactions to guide rational probe design.
Professor Satoshi Yanagisawa's research lab specializes in cardiac electrophysiology and heart failure management, with a focus on understanding the mechanisms and predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence and adverse outcomes in patients with heart failure. The lab investigates biomarkers such as red cell distribution width (RDW) and natriuretic peptides (BNP), as well as autonomic nervous system modulation and pulmonary vein reconnection, to improve risk stratification and treatment outcomes. Key research directions include the impact of catheter ablation on cardiac function and rhythm maintenance, the role of imaging (e.g., epicardial adipose tissue volume) in arrhythmia mechanisms, and patient-specific responses to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).
Professor Yoshiaki Inukai's research lab focuses on the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying root development in rice, with a particular emphasis on auxin and cytokinin signaling, root patterning, and auxin transport. The lab investigates how transcription factors, such as those in the AP2/ERF and WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) families, regulate crown root and lateral root formation, primordium size determination, and root elongation. Using forward and reverse genetics approaches in rice, the lab uncovers key regulators of root system architecture, contributing to the understanding of plant adaptability to environmental stresses.
Professor Rory Bunker's research lab specializes in applying machine learning and data science to sports analytics, with a focus on predictive modeling, performance analysis, and interpretable AI in team sports. The lab investigates machine learning algorithms for forecasting match outcomes, identifying key performance indicators, and mining sequential patterns in sports events to support coaching and strategic decision-making. Research spans diverse sports such as football (soccer) and rugby, emphasizing practical, real-world applications for coaches, players, and sports organizations.
Professor Hiroshi Ito's research lab specializes in the development and characterization of advanced functional materials, with a focus on wide-bandgap semiconductors such as gallium oxide and aluminum gallium oxide heterostructures for next-generation power electronics. The lab also investigates low-dimensional quantum materials, including organic superconductors and single-molecule magnets, exploring their electronic, transport, and thermoelectric properties under extreme conditions like pressure and electrostatic doping. A key theme is the interplay between structural order, electronic correlations, and emergent quantum phenomena in complex oxides and organic conductors.
Professor Takeshi Mori's research lab specializes in biomedical and biomaterials science, focusing on the development and characterization of stimuli-responsive polymers and their applications in diagnostics and therapeutics. The lab investigates functional biomaterials such as thermoresponsive hydrogels and DNA-conjugated polymers for controlled drug delivery and biosensing. It also conducts translational research in fungal infection diagnostics, particularly using (1→3)-β-D-glucan as a biomarker, and explores molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis and host responses. The lab integrates polymer chemistry, molecular biology, and clinical microbiology to advance precision medicine and novel diagnostic tools.
Professor Shungo Imai's research lab specializes in clinical pharmacology and pharmaceutical care, focusing on optimizing antibiotic therapy through advanced data-driven approaches. The lab primarily investigates vancomycin-induced nephrotoxicity and develops predictive models using machine learning techniques such as decision trees and artificial neural networks. Their work emphasizes improving patient safety by creating clinically applicable risk prediction models for adverse drug reactions at the time of initial drug administration. The lab also explores the impact of pharmacy services on therapeutic drug monitoring practices in real-world hospital settings.
Professor Daigo Nakazawa's research lab focuses on the pathophysiological roles of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and neutrophil cell death in inflammatory and thrombotic diseases. The lab investigates how NETosis and NET-associated damage contribute to organ injury in acute kidney injury, autoimmune vasculitis (such as MPO-associated ANCA vasculitis), and venous thromboembolism. A central theme is the interplay between innate immunity, coagulation, and endothelial dysfunction, particularly through the release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and the role of molecules like thrombomodulin in regulating these processes. The lab also explores therapeutic targets such as MLKL in necroptosis and the potential of recombinant thrombomodulin in modulating inflammation and coagulation.
Professor Hideyuki Murakami's research lab specializes in cardiovascular and vascular biology, with a focus on the pathophysiological roles of bioactive peptides and hormones in hypertension, insulin resistance, and atherosclerosis. The lab investigates the kallikrein-kinin system and renin-angiotensin system in regulating vascular smooth muscle cell function and baroreflex sensitivity, particularly in heart failure models. Additionally, the lab explores materials science aspects, including the effects of platinum group metals on the microstructure and phase stability of nickel-based superalloys. These interdisciplinary studies bridge molecular mechanisms in cardiovascular disease with advanced materials development.
Professor Yuki Enoki's research lab focuses on the pathophysiology of chronic kidney disease (CKD)-related complications, particularly skeletal muscle atrophy (sarcopenia) and systemic inflammation. The lab investigates the role of uremic toxins—especially indoxyl sulfate—in driving mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and muscle wasting, while exploring novel therapeutic targets such as the apelin-Apj system. Additionally, the lab examines the protective effects of antimicrobial agents like levofloxacin in viral lung injury and evaluates infection prevention strategies in surgical settings.
Professor Yoshifumi Uwamino's research lab specializes in clinical microbiology and molecular diagnostics, focusing on the development and application of molecular techniques for rapid and accurate detection of infectious diseases. The lab investigates emerging pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2 and *Mycobacterium* species, with particular emphasis on optimizing sample types—like saliva—for safer and more accessible testing. Research also explores host-pathogen interactions, including the role of hormonal factors in disease susceptibility, as seen in studies on postmenopausal women and MAC-LD. The lab is actively advancing molecular diagnostic panels, such as the Myco-Panel, to improve the identification of mycobacterial infections in clinical settings.
Professor Keitaro Fukuda's research lab focuses on the intricate interplay between the skin microenvironment, innate immune sensing, and cancer immunotherapy, particularly in melanoma. The lab investigates how cytosolic DNA sensors like STING and AIM2 shape anti-tumor immunity, explores the role of tissue repair responses in promoting metastasis, and examines the critical functions of skin barrier components—such as tight junctions and the stratum corneum—in immune regulation and disease. A central theme is understanding how endogenous and tumor-derived signals in the skin microenvironment influence therapeutic responses to immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and dendritic cell vaccines. The lab also investigates the dual role of autoimmunity, such as vitiligo, as a biomarker and mediator of anti-tumor immunity in melanoma patients.
Professor Chao Lin's research lab specializes in urban air quality and atmospheric dispersion modeling, focusing on the complex interactions between traffic emissions, urban morphology, and atmospheric processes. The lab develops advanced computational models—such as the SSH-Aerosol box model—coupled with CFD tools like OpenFOAM and Code_Saturne to simulate the formation and dispersion of primary and secondary pollutants, including NO₂ and PM₁₀. Experimental validation is conducted through high-resolution wind tunnel studies using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), particularly examining the impact of building features like parapets and upwind structures on rooftop wind conditions for Urban-Air-Mobility (UAM) safety. The lab also advances turbulence modeling by proposing anisotropic diffusivity approaches to improve the accuracy of pollutant plume prediction in urban boundary layers.
Professor Jun Nakatani's research lab specializes in sustainable materials management and environmental systems analysis, focusing on life cycle assessment (LCA), material flow analysis (MFA), and the optimization of waste management systems. The lab investigates plastic and construction waste recycling, resource recovery, and the environmental impacts of alternative management strategies in both developed and developing countries. Key research directions include improving recycling efficiency, assessing the climate benefits of recycling and energy recovery, and designing data-driven, system-based solutions for circular economy transitions.
Professor Masaki Takaoka's research lab specializes in environmental materials science, focusing on the speciation and chemical behavior of heavy metals in municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) fly ash. The lab employs advanced synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAFS) and in situ XANES techniques to investigate the oxidation states and local electronic structures of toxic metals such as copper, lead, antimony, and zinc during thermal processes. Their work aims to elucidate the mechanisms of dioxin formation and metal transformation in post-combustion environments, contributing to improved pollution control and safer waste management technologies. The lab also explores the role of metal chlorides and fly ash components in catalyzing hazardous compound generation under realistic incineration conditions.
Professor Shiho Kino's research lab focuses on social determinants of health, particularly the interplay between socioeconomic status, health behaviors, and mental health outcomes. The lab investigates how policy interventions—such as health insurance expansion and Medicaid reforms—affect health disparities and access to care, with a strong emphasis on equity and resilience in vulnerable populations. Using innovative methods including machine learning to analyze non-traditional data sources, the lab explores causal pathways and algorithmic fairness in public health research. A central theme is understanding and reducing social inequalities in health through evidence-based policy and community-level interventions.
Professor Kentaro Shimizu's research lab focuses on the pathophysiological role of the gut microbiome and intestinal microenvironment in critical illness, particularly in patients with severe systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, and multi-organ dysfunction. The lab investigates how dysbiosis—especially reductions in obligate anaerobes and overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria—contributes to disease progression, septic complications, and mortality. A key research direction involves identifying gut flora and metabolite profiles as potential prognostic biomarkers in critically ill patients. The lab also explores the structural and functional consequences of chronic spinal cord compression, linking mechanical stress and vascular changes to neurological deterioration.
Professor Seiichi Nagano's research lab focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases, particularly amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The lab investigates oxidative stress, protein misfolding, and the role of metal ions—especially copper—in disease pathogenesis, with a strong emphasis on mutant superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) and TDP-43 pathology. Key research directions include the dysregulation of RNA metabolism, particularly non-coding RNA (ncRNA) biogenesis such as piRNA, and the impact of impaired axonal transport and local protein synthesis on neuronal health and degeneration. The lab integrates biochemical, histological, and 'omics' approaches to uncover novel therapeutic targets in neurodegeneration.
