Section of Natural Products Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Resources
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Outline of the research
Our research area aims to discover novel drug leads and promote their translation into practical applications. To achieve this goal, we investigate bioactive molecules from natural resources through their isolation, structural elucidation, biosynthetic studies, and engineering of biosynthetic enzymes. A distinctive feature of our research is its interdisciplinary approach, integrating natural products chemistry with organic chemistry, biochemistry, and structural biology. Consequently, our research encompasses a wide range of experimental methodologies. Currently, we are primarily engaged in the research topics described below.
- Studies on biosynthesis of naturally occurring bioactive compounds.
- Structural basis for secondary metabolite enzymes.
- Enzyme engineering for novel drug development.
- Isolation of bioactive compounds from plants, microorganisms, and marine organisms.
- Investigation of Asia’s natural resources not fully utilized.
