We are contributing to SDGs through our research on glycobiology and glycoengineering.
- What are glycans ?
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The term “glycans” refer to chains of sugars(monosaccharides).
Glycans serve many biological functions that are essential for life. (Eg. cell adhesion, increasing stability and activity of proteins, cell-cell recognition, etc.)
Glycan structures that are different from the human-type might cause biopharmaceutical proteins to lose their bioactivity or be targeted for degradation.
In order for biopharmaceuticals to function normally and efficiently, glycan structures must be altered through genetic modification.
Production of biopharmaceutical proteins using plants and insects cells and analysis of their glycan structures.
We are aiming to produce therapeutic proteins in insect cells, focusing specifically on the analysis of glycan structures and manipulation of glycosylation pathway.
Prof.FUJIYAMABy applying our research to protein expression and glycan modification in silkworms, we aim to improve the biopharmaceutical protein production system .
High-quality and high-production of antibodies using cultured animal cells
Antibody is a typical pharmaceutical proteins and produced in vivo. Antibodies have glycans, and it is known that the performance of antibodies changes depending on the glycan structure. We are aiming to produce more effective antibodies by glycan modification with genetic recombination.
We are improving antibody productivity through genetic recombination.
We are investigating the relationship between the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and glycans for therapy.
Prof.MISAKIAlthough the antibody production using animal cells is expensive, high-quality and high-production of antibodies will be achieved by development of the studies described above. Then, the achievement will supply effective antibodies to patients with low price.
Creation of Biodiesel Fuel
While there are many challenges in the large-scale production of biodiesel, we are aiming to lower the production cost by utilizing waste material and converting it to fuel.
- What is biodiesel ?
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Biodiesel is a fuel that can be used instead of petroleum, and has the advantage of being environmentally friendly and renewable. In addition, yeasts can be used to efficiently produce fuel without the limitations of land and climate.
Prof.KAJIURAOur goal is to establish a biofuel production system that does not compete with food.
Studying in an inclusive research environment
Asian and Japanese students are collaborating on research using biological resources in Asia.