Nihon University
Structural Biology Group
Our research focuses on structural biology, aiming to understand proteins through their three-dimensional structures, and on protein engineering, where we use structural information to modify and create novel protein functions. We are particularly interested in elucidating the relationship between protein structure and function, and in applying this knowledge to the rational design of functional proteins.
Students who are interested in our research group and wish to join the laboratory are welcome to contact us. In the 2025 academic year, our group consists of eight undergraduate students, actively engaged in research activities.
Research keywords
Structural Biology: Understanding the functions of biomolecules through their three-dimensional structures.
X-ray Crystallography: Determining protein structures by growing protein crystals and analyzing their diffraction patterns.
XFEL (X-ray Free Electron Laser): Collaborative research using X-ray free electron lasers for advanced structural analysis.
Protein Engineering: Designing and creating functional proteins based on structural information.
Lectin: Studying proteins that specifically bind to carbohydrates, with a focus on their structure and function.
Collaborations
Yokohama City University: Structural analysis (X-ray crystallography and Cryo-EM), Glycobiology
Nagasaki International University: Lectins and cell biology
KU Leuven: Protein design, Disease-related proteins, XFEL-based structural analysis
University of Trieste: Exploration of novel lectins
University of Naples Federico II: Analysis of lectin–carbohydrate interactions