Prof FUTAKI, Shiroh (D Pharm Sc)

The ultimate goal of our research is the regulation of cellular functions by designed peptides and proteins. Current projects include “Development of membrane permeable peptide vectors”, “Design of peptides inducing structural changes of the plasma membrane”, and “Creation of nucleic acids-binding proteins with desired sequence specificities and control of cellular functions”.

Prof YAMAGUCHI, Shinjiro (D Agr)

A group of small molecules, called plant hormones, play an important role in growth and environmental responses of plants. We take chemical and biological approaches to understand how hormones are made and act in plants. We also try to identify new hormone-like compounds that have been implicated in studies on mutants.

Higher plants adapt to changing environments through their plasticity. We aim to understand the molecular basis of gene expression regulation and signal transduction involved in this plasticity. Research topics cover general molecular mechanisms that is common across kingdoms, i.e. (1) COP9 signalosome (CSN) mediated gene expression regulation mechanisms, (2) phospholipid signal mediated molecular mechanisms governing plant cell morphogenesis, etc.

Prof UESUGI, Motonari (D Pharm Sc)

Small organic molecules have been utilized to improve human health and to elucidate the secrets of life. Discovery or design of small organic molecules with unique biological activity permits small-molecule-initiated exploration of cells and living organisms. Our laboratory has been discovering small organic molecules that modulate a range of biological events and use them as tools to explore and control biological events.