Recently, we discovered that changes in molecular interfaces distant from the functional sites of proteins can reveal new functions (Commun Biol 2021; Mol Plant 2020). We also found that synthetic protein interactions, which form specific molecular interfaces, regulate enzyme functions and allow the visualization of small proteins via cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) (Nat Commun 2023). In this study, we aim to develop novel enzymes, organisms, pharmaceuticals, devices, and technologies by regulating molecular interfaces.

I have been researching CO2-fixing enzymes involved in photosynthesis. Recently, we discovered that a “subunit swap”—the substitution of a non-core part of the CO2-fixing enzyme Rubisco—can increase its catalytic rate. Rice plants expressing this modified enzyme showed enhanced photosynthetic activity. Based on this research, I am now focusing on advancing new studies on the regulation of molecular interfaces.

The global human population is projected to reach 9.7 billion by 2050. Over the next 50 years, the greatest challenges will be sustainably providing enough food and energy to support humanity, and controlling the spread of infectious diseases exacerbated by global warming. My goal is to establish the basis for addressing these critical global environmental challenges that will emerge in the coming decades.

To that end, I aim to create novel enzymes, organisms, pharmaceuticals, devices, and technologies by regulating molecular interfaces; expand my collaborative research network; and actively share my findings beyond the university community.

I hope that my research will contribute to a wide range of fields, including those directly impacting daily life, such as drug discovery for treating infectious diseases, the development of functional foods, personalized medicine, agricultural chemical development, and bioprocessing with microorganisms.

Partnerships:
I am eager to collaborate with colleagues across sectors, whether in industry, government, or academia. Given that my work involves technologies for creating proteins and enzymes, synthesizing artificial proteins, crystallization, and X-ray crystallography, as well as cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), I am particularly interested in forming partnerships in the academic, pharmaceutical, and food industries.

Research collaborations:
I believe it is essential to establish partnerships where both parties can collaborate comfortably. Relationships that enable both sides to express themselves openly are crucial for ensuring clear and effective communication.