Masahito Ikawa（Professor, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, The University of Osaka）

　This Research Area aims to “deepen understanding of biological functions through innovative ideas and technologies” and “evolution of ingenious design of biological functions based on understandings”, bring virtuous cycles through the synergistic effects of both, and create results that lead to innovation and revolution in life science research fields.
　Specifically, research on “understanding biological functions” includes the discovery and elucidation of functions through unprecedented high-resolution or high-sensitivity observation, measurement, profiling, etc. Additionally, research on “designing biological functions” includes genome editing technology and its advanced developments, or modification of biological functions by functional molecules, or the creating new biological functions.
　The target biological functions are gene expression, protein synthesis, modification, metabolism, degradation, information transmission within and between cells and tissues, reproduction, development, differentiation, regeneration, aging, immunity, biological defense, symbiosis, memory, learning, and biological rhythms. The target organisms are not restricted to animals, but also include plants, microorganisms and others. In other words, there are no restrictions on the research targets, but research must be challenging and based on unprecedented, innovative ideas and technologies.
　In implementing research, we prioritize the development of researchers and emphasize the establishment of platforms for interaction and mutual inspiration among young researchers from different research areas. Furthermore, active efforts are made to build a broad human network that will facilitate future collaborations among researchers.