Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo

Using microbial enzymes to replace wood and grass as fossil resources

The Earth's overall temperature has been rising since the latter half of the 20th century. It is considered that global warming will accelerate further in the future as humans continue to use fossil fuels, such as oil and coal, for fuel and raw materials that are ultimately burned. As citizens of the Earth, it will become increasingly important for us to reduce our use of fossil resources in our daily lives.
Enzymes can perform various chemical reactions at normal temperatures and pressures. With recent advances in biotechnology, they are now being used in a wide range of fields beyond medicine and health. Our research group studies the mechanisms by which fungi, mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms that feed on trees and grass in nature break down plant cell walls. We are also investigating how to utilize the enzymes used by these microorganisms to break down polysaccharides, such as cellulose and hemicellulose (the main components of plants), to produce raw materials for biofuels, bioplastics, and new materials.
Such microorganisms play an important role in nature as decomposers. By harnessing their power for the benefit of human society and reducing the environmental impact of our lives, we can coexist with all living things on Earth.

We want to train “One Earth Guardians” who can solve various global issues through the use of biomass.

In response to the global trend toward decarbonization, various industries in Japan are taking action with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 46% by 2030 and achieving a carbon-neutral society by 2050. On the other hand, in education up to high school, students learn very little about the current state of the climate or global efforts to address it. I am a certified Climate Reality Leader, so I would first like to provide an opportunity to learn about the current state of the Earth and what actions we, as humans, should take in response.
With this background in mind, students will learn how to utilize the biotechnology of microorganisms such as mushrooms, fungi, and bacteria for the use of biomass, typified by plant cell walls. Ultimately, we aim to nurture individuals who can tackle global issues using agricultural science as a tool.
After graduation, students go on to work in a variety of fields, including chemical manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, venture companies, and government agencies. Many graduates, however, are employed in jobs that address environmental issues.

Biomass is broken down using enzymes, and organic materials are produced using enzymes.

In the move towards creating a decarbonized society, the world is beginning to transition to a biosphere-friendly society known as the “bioeconomy.” However, awareness remains low in Japan, and if this continues, there is a risk that Japan will become isolated in the environmental field as well.
Our research group focuses on the enzymatic degradation and synthesis of cellulose, the main component of biomass. Technically, we specialize in manufacturing using microorganisms and the large-scale production of enzymes in heterologous hosts. We are well-versed in various technologies related to the bioeconomy. In addition, drawing on my experience as a visiting professor at the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, I am committed to developing new ideas with a constant focus on practical application, rather than remaining confined to the academic realm. For example, we have a library of more than 50 mushroom-derived biomass conversion recombinant enzymes, all of which can be produced on a commercial scale. If you are interested in next-generation biomass utilization using microorganisms and enzymes, please feel free to contact us.