Core Technologies

 

 

 

1. Molecular Biosensors

To monitor dynamic molecular interactions with high spatiotemporal resolutions in live cells, we develop fluorescent/luminescent molecular biosensors utilizing various sensing strategies e.g. fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), and circular permuted fluorescent protein (cpFP) (Reviews in Sensors, 2021; Front Cell Dev Biol, 2022; Front Physiol, 2024).

Visualization of the spatial and temporal dynamics of protein activity and cellular functions

2. Optogenetics / Chemogenetics

To control protein activity and cellular functions with high spatiotemporal resolutions, we develop optogenetic/chemogenetic molecular actuators based on various strategies, e.g. photodissociable Dronpa (pdDronpa) (Review in Annual Reviews Biochemistry, 2021).

Precise control of protein activity and cellular functions with spatiotemporal resolutions

Experimental Techniques

  • AlphaFold-based molecular design & Structural analysis
  • Molecular cloning
  • Cell culture
  • Live-cell imaging (Fluorescence/FRET)
  • Spectrometer (Fluorescence/BRET)
  • Flow cytometry
  • Biochemical techniques (western blot, immunostaining)