【Research Theme】
Taro Toyota
The University of Tokyo, Department of Basic Science, Lecturer
http://www.dbs.c.u-tokyo.ac.jp/labo/d2/toyota_taro.php
This project aims to design and construct a molecular integrated system which exhibits cell-like dynamics such as self-reproduction, self-propelled motion and molecular communication. This design concept is based on the molecular self-assembly and cognition of reactive amphiphiles in water, and in this sense, the current system is named as "Dynamic Lipid World". By combining microfabrication techniques and laser spectroscopy, the mechanism on these dynamics is revealed in terms of interfacial tension, viscosity and molecular interaction. The findings in this project will contribute to give a novel experimental model for the chemical evolution hypothesis.