Akira Isogai（Professor Emeritus, Nara Institute of Science and Technology）

　This research area targets the creation of essential technologies for utilizing carbon dioxide, as a resource, through the enhancement of plant photosynthesis and the exploitation of plant products.
　In detail, the research topics include
　1) developing essential technologies that enhance photosynthetic potential through an integrative and systematic approach to understanding the regulatory mechanisms of photosynthesis, the basis of material productivity in plants, with consideration of the interaction between metabolism and translocation of photosynthetic products and other metabolic pathways such as nitrogen assimilation;
　2) developing essential technologies that improve the photosynthetic activity, carbon storage potential, and biomass productivity of plants, through the elucidation of the mechanisms by which plants adapt to various environments; and
　3) the study of mechanisms of biomass production and decomposition, and the development of technologies for improved biomass utilization.
　In parallel with these three research topics, this research area focuses on collaboration and synergy in the fields of plant science and biomass engineering.