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Prof. Yuji Hiraki
Assoc. Prof. Chisa Shukunami
We are aiming at the elucidation of molecular interactions and signaling networks underlying bone and cartilage
formation. Our current research efforts are focused on the following studies: (1) Action mechanisms of cartilage-specific
growth modulating factor chondromodulin-I and tendon-specific angiogenesis inhibitor tenomodulin; (2) Regulatory
mechanism of endochondral bone formation; (3) Transcriptional regulation of tenomodulin gene; (4) Identification of
regulatory genes associated with chondrogenic differentiation; (5) Action mechanisms of tissue-specific anti-angiogenic
factors (chondromodulin-I & tenomodulin) and its therapeutic applications for angiogenic diseases.
Prof. Yasuhiko Tabata
Assoc. Prof. Masaya Yamamoto
The main objective of our department is to proceed the research and development of methods, procedures, and
technologies applicable to biology or basic and clinical medicines from the viewpoint of material sciences. The materials
to use in the body and to directly contact biological substances are defined as biomaterials. We are designing and synthesizing
various types of biodegradable or non-biodegradable biomaterials. Our research goal is not only to positively carry
out basic researches of biomaterial-based tissue engineering, drug delivery system (DDS), biomedical engineering, and
stem cell technology but also put the research results to clinical and practical uses.
Prof. Hiroo Iwata
Assist. Prof. Yusuke Arima
We implement materials engineering approaches to overcome problems associated with current technology for cellbased
therapy, namely for diabetic milieu and central nervous disorders, focusing on the followings: 1) Constructing
artificial environments that promote differentiation of embryonic and somatic stem cells into functional cells, taking
advantage of biological interactions of cells with extracellular matrices, growth factors, and stromal cells. 2) Tailoring
semi-permeable membranes for use in immunoisolation of transplanted cells in the recipient. Engineered protein-based
materials are further designed for facilitating the engraftment of transplanted cells and the efficient reconstruction of
tissues. 3) Gaining deeper insights into the molecular events taking place at the interface between artificial materials and
biological systems, by means of surface-sensitive analytical techniques. 4) Establishing the high-throughput assay technology
that allows cell-based functional screening for biomolecules having significant impacts on the physiology of stem cells.
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Human Embryonic Stem Cell Project
