Biomolecular Chemistry Laboratory

We design and evolve research tools based on fluorescent proteins

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Innovative Research Tools from Fluorescent Proteins

We use protein engineering to invent new tools for imaging dynamic biochemical events in live cells and tissues. We distribute these tools to cell biologists and neuroscientists who apply them to address questions ranging from fundamental mechanisms in cell biology, to the underlying causes of mental illness, to the development of novel therapeutics.


The molecules that make our work possible are colourful naturally occurring fluorescent proteins from jellyfish, coral, and other marine organisms. Starting from the gene for a fluorescent protein, we use the techniques of molecular biology, protein engineering, and artificial molecular evolution to create useful research tools. Since these tools are protein based, the instructions to make them can be easily introduced into cells, tissues, or even transgenic model organisms, in the form of DNA.

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  • Call for Applications: Postdoctoral Fellow

    We invite applications for a postdoctoral fellowship focused on the development of optogenetic tools to regulate metabolic processes. The position is expected to begin on April 1, 2026. For further details, please refer to the faculty homepage below. https://www.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/recruit/?id=1875 当研究室は、代謝制御のための光遺伝学ツール開発に従事していただく博士研究員を募集しています。雇用開始日は2026年4月1日を予定しております。詳細につきましては、学部ホームページをご確認ください。 https://www.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/ja/recruit/?id=1874

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  • A paper on a bipartite genetically encoded calcium biosensors is now published!

    Our new research paper, “Bipartite Genetically Encoded Biosensors to Sense Calcium Ion Dynamics at Membrane–Membrane Contact Site”, is now published in Analytical Chemistry. Congratulations, Issei and co-authors! The paper can be accessed here. 山口さんらによる自発的再構成型新規蛍光タンパク質に基づくカルシウムセンサー関する論文が Analytical Chemistry に掲載されました。おめでとうございます！論文はこちらからご覧いただけます。

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