Research Director: Itaru HAMACHI
(Professor, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University)
Research Term: Oct 2018 - Mar 2025
Grant Number: JPMJER1802

Our research purpose is developing new molecular technology based on live-cell organic chemistry that can selectively label and modify target proteins under natural habitats. We also aim to develop unique chemical methods (chemical and photo-chemical genetics) for artificially controlling protein functions. These new methodologies are applied not only to model cells but also to complicated biological systems including cultured neurons, brain tissues and live animals. These allow for selective imaging of neurotransmitter receptors and clarification of neuronal networks at molecular resolution.

Based on these efforts, we would like to establish a new technology termed "Innovative molecular technology for neuroscience". We believe that this would contribute to understanding brain function at molecular level, and lead to the diagnosis and therapy for neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Research Groups

Group (1): Development of new live-cell organic chemistry

Group (2): Development of methods for controlling protein activity

Group (3): Strategies for imaging and regulation of neuron and brain tissue

Group (4): Clarifying physiological roles in animals using molecular technologies

Project Headquarters

Kyoto University ROHM Plaza #165,
Kyotodaigaku-Katsura, Nishikyo-ku,
Kyoto, Japan. 615-8520