Research

Our research aims to understand the chemical principles underlying biological phenomena in nature and contribute to addressing societal challenges. By focusing on the metabolic pathways of biologically active substances in microorganisms and plants, we seek to discover novel enzymes that catalyze chemical transformations that are difficult to achieve through conventional chemical methods. We also aim to develop practical biocatalysts with superior catalytic functions surpassing those of natural enzymes.

Exploration of Novel Biosynthetic Pathways

Microorganisms and plants produce natural products with diverse chemical structures. We focus on bioactive natural compounds with unique chemical architectures and explore novel biosynthetic pathways. By integrating bioinformatics and organic chemistry, we aim to discover new enzymes and uncover new types of chemical reactions, thereby elucidating the diverse metabolic potentials of living organisms.

Recent examples:

Elucidation of secondary tetrapyrolle pathways　　J. Am. Chem. Soc. 145, 9834-9839 (2023)

Discovery of nitrocyclopropane-forming enzymes　　J. Am. Chem. Soc. 143, 18413- 18418 (2021)

Understanding of Enzyme Mechanisms

Chemical synthesis utilizing biocatalysts has garnered significant attention as a method for producing compounds with high selectivity and environmental compatibility. However, precise control over enzymatic reactivity necessitates a detailed understanding of the enzyme mechanisms. With applications of practical biocatalysts in mind, our research focuses on elucidating the mechanisms of previously unexplored reactions involving radical species and multinuclear metal complexes.

Recent examples:

Mechanistic studies on cyclopropanases　　J. Am. Chem. Soc. 145, 24210-24217 (2023)

Mechanistic studies on a norlignan rearrangement　J. Am. Chem. Soc. 145, 21966-21973 (2023)

Mechanistic studies on aziridine-forming enzymes　　J. Am. Chem. Soc. 144, 21512-21520 (2022)