Basic information of the Research Area

[Supra-assembly of biomolecule]Dynamic supra-assembly of biomolecular systems

Strategic Objective

Functional dynamics in the cell

Overview

The multiple functions of cells are based on dynamic supra-assembly of biomolecular systems ranging from molecular complexes to organelles. This research area aims to investigate the properties of such dynamic supra-assembly of biomolecular systems based on molecular studies, and elucidate the universal mechanism of how cellular functions emerge from inter-hierarchical interactions among molecules, molecular complexes, and organelles.
Recently, the methodology for the observation and analysis of such cross-hierarchical phenomena been dramatically developed in the life science field. An example is biological droplet formation. Although it has been widely thought that the physical boundary between inside and outside of an organelle is comparted by lipid bilayer, recent studies has shown that some types of biomolecules self-assemble to form membraneless organelles, granules and bodies by liquid-liquid phase separation like phenomena. As for technology, the development of super-resolution microscopies and target specific molecular probes has made it possible to capture images with high spatiotemporal resolution and to analyze the detailed structures of dynamic supra-assembly of biomolecular structures. Such new science and technology are often developed from interdisciplinary collaborations of life scientists with physicists, chemists or researchers in different fields. Therefore, such interdisciplinary researches must always be encouraged.
This program pursues the promotion of cutting-edge researches for the elucidation of the fundamental mechanisms of who cellular functions emerge from cross-hierarchical interactions of supra-assemblies of biomolecules. We also promote researches that aim the creation of novel technologies that enable the measurement of dynamics of supra-assemblies with unprecedentedly high spatiotemporal resolution, as well as the researches with creative idea on mathematical and/or theoretical approaches.

Research Area Advisors

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Schedule of Selection Process

Deadline for application	2022/05/31 at 12:00 noon, Japan time
Document-based review	2022/07/05
JST will contact to the interviewees no later than	2022/07/12
Interview-based review（※） ※Interview date and time will be assigned by JST.	2022/07/26・07/27・07/28

Research Supervisor's Policy

Research Supervisor's Policy of this Research Area can be downloaded from below.