"Expanding microbial functions" by engineering ribosomes
Since ancient times, we have utilized microorganisms and benefited from them. A familiar example is the production of fermented foods and medicines. In addition, attempts at environmental purification using microorganisms are also being studied. However, such use often causes stress and leads to a decline in microbial function. Therefore, by understanding the mechanisms behind this stress and modifying the microorganisms based on the knowledge gained, we may be able to create "super microorganisms" that work as we wish. Then, what should we modify about the microorganisms? All living organisms have ribosomes, which are known as a "factory" that produces proteins. Protein synthesis requires enormous amounts of energy, so cellular function is inextricably linked to protein synthesis, or the state of the ribosomes. Therefore, I focused on these ribosomes. The function of Ribosomes stop working due to stress and harmful conditions for cells. This phenomenon is called "ribosome hibernation", a dormant state of the ribosome, and is conserved among microorganisms. Therefore, I thought that by manipulating the ribosome, we could "customize" the microorganisms as we desired. Based on the idea, I am currently conducting basic and applied research to artificially switch the "activating" and "hibernating" states of ribosomes. Through this, I aim to expand the potential of microorganisms and implement them in society.
Educational approach
Development of human resources with a broad perspective
My research focuses on microbiology, but my overall research spans various scientific fields. For example, we established bacteria that can remain in the intestinal tract for a long time by modifying ribosomal function, as part of a joint research project with researchers in the field of veterinary medicine and biomedical engineering. Furthermore, we determined the structure of the ribosome to gain a deeper understanding of the physiological role of ribosome hibernation, collaborating with structural biology researchers. Such interdisciplinary research is my greatest strength and a major driving force behind my work. For this reason, I encourage active exchange with research laboratories in other fields. Recent research has become highly specialized, and it is easy to lose sight of the big picture. It is important to have an overview of the research field, which will lead to a breakthrough. I hope students will understand the position and potential of their research within the research system. Through these experiences, they will grow into individuals with a broad perspective.
Vision for industry-academia collaboration
Let's try "customizing" microorganisms from a new perspective with us!
We are conducting research aimed at "enhancing the useful functions of microorganisms through the regulation of ribosome activity". Ribosomes are divided into "active state" and "hibernating state". The latter one is induced by stress or detrimental conditions to cells and is a hot topic in recent microbiology. However, many aspects remain unclear. While elucidating the molecular mechanism of "ribosome hibernation", I realized that it could be applied to the modification of bacterial functions. For example, when Escherichia coli is genetically modified to accumulate hibernating ribosomes, the bacteria tend to adhere more readily to solid surfaces. Therefore, I demonstrated that this mutant strain of Escherichia coli can stably colonize the mouse intestines over a prolonged period by inoculating it into mice. In the future, I hope to strengthen the colonization of beneficial bacteria such as probiotics. Conversely, strains whose ribosomes do not enter the hibernation state are expected to maintain their walking capacity without rest, producing proteins and compounds that are beneficial for us; this may also lead to the discovery of unknown substances. We are seeking industry-academia collaboration with companies interested in research aimed at the social implementation of the limitless capabilities of microorganisms.
