Pathophysiology
Understanding the underlying causes of diseases is essential for drug discovery and effective drug therapy. Our laboratory focuses on neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as aquaporins, which are responsible for water transport. We analyze the mechanisms by which the disruption of biological functions leads to the onset of diseases at the molecular level. Through our research, we aim to contribute to the development of prevention strategies and effective treatments.
Members
-
GAMOH SHUJI Professor -
WAKABAYASHI TOMOKO Associate Professor -
MOCHIZUKI YASUKO Lecturer
Research Topics
-
Study of the preventive and therapeutic effects of docosahexaenoic acid on neurodegenerative diseases.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is highly accumulated in brain, so it is thought to be involved in the function of central nervous system (CNS). The intake of DHA is expected to have the potential to suppress the decline in cognitive function and the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. The aims of our study are to evaluate the preventive effects of DHA administration against neurodegenerative diseases, especially Parkinson's disease, and to elucidate its action mechanism.
-
Investigating the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis
The accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain plays a crucial role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Our research aims to identify the molecules and signaling pathways that regulate the accumulation of pathogenic proteins and to uncover the underlying disease mechanisms. In particular, we focus on senescence-regulating signals, including insulin signaling.
-
Physiological studies of aquaporin in tissues and cells
Our body contains so much water. Each cell has specific holes to passage water. It is constructed with water channel Aquaporin (AQP). There are 13 kinds of AQPs in mammales (AQP0-AQP12). We are specifically studying AQP11.