Research Area and Theme

Clarifying Glycan Functions Using Living Organisms and Deployment for Drug Discovery Research

I have been leading the world in the deployment of glycan research using model organisms such as Drosophila and nematodes. Recently, I have succeeded in analyzing special glycans produced by human iPS cells and I am aiming to contribute to the field of regenerative medicine.

Thoughts on Research Theme

We are conducting glycan engineering research targeting the surface glycans of various cells including iPS cells and ES cells, which are currently attracting global interest. Cell surfaces in living organisms are covered with glycans (glycocalyx), and glycans play an important role in cell-to-cell communication and expression of physiological functions by binding to various molecules, including proteins and lipids. 　If we can analyze the biological role that glycans expressed on the surface of iPS cells and ES cells play in cell reprogramming and differentiation, it will be possible to normalize and standardize more efficient, safe, and simple cell cultures as well as cell states. 　Also, clarifying the detailed glycan environment when iPS cells are derived from somatic cells may help establish a new method for producing safe iPS cells without gene introduction. 　In addition, we will prevent the formation of teratomas caused by the contamination of undifferentiated iPS cells and ES cells, which will lead to the prevention of cancer and other diseases. Clarifying the structure and function of glycans will support the research and development of iPS cells and ES cells, and should greatly contribute to the development of regenerative medicine.