Unveiling Enzyme Structures to Decipher the Secrets of Life at the Atomic Level
Living organisms possess a vast diversity of enzymes. Our research focuses on elucidating the “structures” of these enzymes at the atomic level. We mainly study enzymes involved in carbohydrate degradation. Our primary research targets so far have been enzymes from intestinal bacteria such as bifidobacteria that degrade carbohydrates (dietary fibers) and human glycans, biomass-degrading enzymes that contribute to maintaining the global environment, and enzymes that can be used for quality control in biopharmaceuticals. We have also conducted research on the enzyme found in onions that produces the compound responsible for causing tears (lachrymatory factor synthase). As a result of elucidating the structures of the enzymes from bifidobacteria abundantly present in the infant gut that degrades oligosaccharides contained in human milk, we have begun to uncover the evolutionary pathway of enzymes involved in the symbiotic relationship between humans and bifidobacteria. Furthermore, we are conducting research on designing enzymes to synthesize oligosaccharides by utilizing the reverse reaction of degradative enzymes.
Educational approach
Developing Human Resources Who Can Approach Life Sciences Through Protein Structures
We conduct research in the field of structural biology, which analyzes the structure and function of enzymes (proteins) based on their three-dimensional conformations. At the same time, we continue classical studies in enzymology and biochemistry, aiming to obtain detailed knowledge about each enzyme from multiple perspectives. While many life science laboratories at universities often organize teams of several students and researchers to work on a project, in our laboratory we encourage each student to take on an independent research project, focusing on a single enzyme as their research subject. Because this research provides fundamental knowledge that is essential across almost all areas of life sciences, students can acquire insights that will be widely applicable in the future. Many of our graduates have found employment at major food and pharmaceutical companies, while others have gone on to become university faculty members or researchers at institutes and corporations.
Vision for industry-academia collaboration
Exploring Applications of Enzyme (Protein) Structure and Function
We conduct research to elucidate the three-dimensional structures of enzymes (proteins) and gain insight into their functions. Although our primary focus is on enzymes related to carbohydrates, we are interested in studying any type of enzyme that exhibits intriguing characteristics. Our laboratory employs a combination of structural analysis techniques, including X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and other complementary methods. We have a strong track record of collaborative research with industry, particularly in determining the structures of industrially valuable enzymes such as oligosaccharide-synthesizing enzymes, resulting in co-authored publications, conference presentations, and the training of doctoral students. In addition to mastering advanced techniques for protein structure determination, we place great emphasis on exploring how these structural insights can be applied in practical and beneficial ways.
