Research

Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology focuses on various pathological conditions—including cancer, inflammation, obesity, muscle atrophy, central nervous system disorders, and brain injury—from the molecular to the organismal level. By elucidating the relationship between these pathological conditions and aging, we aim to establish new therapeutic agents, treatment strategies, and methods for extending healthy lifespan. Our primary research areas are as follows: 

1. Elucidation of novel mitochondrial functions regulating cancer and inflammatory responses

Mitochondria are crucial organelles that, in addition to energy production, regulate various cellular functions such as cell death and inflammatory responses. Our laboratory has identified the possibility that the mitochondrial electron transport chain regulates cancer cell sensitivity to anticancer drugs and inflammatory responses through novel mechanisms, and we are currently working to fully elucidate these mechanisms. Furthermore, we are conducting research aimed at elucidating novel mitochondrial functions in cancer and inflammation via the modulation of mitochondrial function using molecular pharmacological approaches.

2. Development of anti-obesity drugs through the induction of beige adipocytes and elucidation of lipotoxicity

Beige adipocytes are fat cells that burn excess fat and suppress obesity. Our laboratory has identified compounds that induce beige adipocytes in vivo and is currently verifying their induction mechanisms and potential as anti-obesity drugs. We are also working to elucidate the mechanisms of cellular toxicity caused by excess fat (lipotoxicity) and aim to develop anti-obesity drugs based on the control of lipotoxicity.

3. Elucidating the mechanisms of age-related muscle atrophy and developing therapeutic approaches based on skeletal muscle regeneration

Age-related muscle atrophy leads to reduced vitality and social engagement due to decreased muscle strength, and can cause serious complications such as dementia. Currently, our laboratory is analyzing the mechanisms of age-related muscle atrophy at the molecular level from the perspectives of the cytoskeleton and epigenetic changes. To date, we have identified compounds related to the cytoskeleton and epigenome that promote skeletal muscle regeneration, and we are currently verifying their therapeutic effects on muscle atrophy using aged mice.

4. Elucidation of the regulatory mechanisms governing glial cell activation

Glial cells, such as microglia and astrocytes, function to maintain the homeostasis of the brain environment under healthy conditions. It is known that during central nervous system disorders, these cells interact with one another to exhibit diverse responses, including neurotoxic and neuroprotective effects. In this study, we aim to explore and elucidate the regulatory mechanisms governing the various activation states arising from interactions between glial cells.

5. Discovery of novel therapeutics for brain injury targeting functional molecules in astrocytes

Despite being a life-threatening condition that significantly impairs brain function, no effective treatments for brain injury have been established to date. It is known that astrocytes, a type of glial cell found in the brain, play a critical role in the progression and recovery from brain injury. In this study, using brain injury model mice and cultured astrocytes, we will elucidate the therapeutic effects and molecular mechanisms of drugs that act on astrocyte functional molecules against brain injury.