【Research Theme】
Sachiko Matsumura
JST PRESTO Researcher
http://cell.jfcr.or.jp/e/index.html
The aim of this research is to develop novel nanocarriers that possess the ability to emerge new functions in response to their environment. These types of nanocarriers are especially useful for the diagnosis and treatment of tumors, because the development of cancer has been found to rely on its microenvironment. Certain proteases are known to be specifically expressed in tumor sites. Cleavage of the peptide substrate by the proteases will be used as the trigger for the nanocarrier to emerge new functions. Based on this concept, adaptive multi-functional nanocarriers will be developed using various peptides, biocompatible polymers, and/or inorganic materials.