Biology DivisionNumazu Branch
Research Outline
Our research focuses on cancer. We are studying cancer biology at the molecular level in order to identify new therapeutic targets and strategies for cancer treatment. Furthermore, based on our findings, we are developing new candidates for anticancer drugs by screening for bioactive natural compounds in microbial cultures using our original experimental systems.
In addition, we apply microbes to environmental fields and also isolate entomophathogenic fungi as a new screening source.
Members
Branch Director Isao Momose
Chief Researcher Hayamitsu Adachi
Senior Researcher Takefumi Onodera
Senior Researcher Shuichi Sakamoto
Senior Researcher Yoko Yamazaki Momose
| Researcher | Ihomi Usami |
| Technical Staff | Rie Onodera |
| Technical Staff | Yasuko Kohda |
| Technical Staff | Nana Hashimoto |
| Technical Staff | Ayaka Mishima |
One more Researcher
Themes
Theme outlines
1. Development of Molecular-Targeted Drugs for Cancer
There are many biological differences between cancer cells and normal cells. We are developing drugs that block the growth and spread of cancer by interfering with specific molecular targets involved.
2. Screening of Bioactive Compounds from Entomopathogenic Fungi Including Tochu-kaso
We have isolated Cordyceps and related entomopathogenic fungi as screening resources for drug discovery. Entomopathogenic fungi are known to produce various bioactive molecules in their life cycle, which involves the infection process of insects, proliferation and insect death. The molecules produced by these microbes are expected to possess unique structures and biological functions and may represent seed compounds for drugs. We screen for bioactive molecules focusing on antitumor compounds and furthermore investigate the activation of fungal secondary metabolisms to broaden diversity of metabolites.
3. The Use of Microorganisms in Environmental Clean-up
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