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Tomoyasu SUGIYAMA

Name

Tomoyasu SUGIYAMA

Department/Research Field

Bionics Program/Biotechnology


Research content
(1) Using our original RNAi library and the SPICE web application, genome-wide RNAi screening was performed and discovered a novel gene which involved in the cell death signaling of endoplasmic reticulum stress. We are interested in the molecular function biologically and physiologically. Using molecular and cellular techniques, we are analyzing the gene. One of our goals is to evaluate the target gene as a candidate of the development of RNAi-based medicine and small molecules. (2) On the bioremediation research, we discovered a novel bacterium Flexivirga alba gen. nov., sp. nov., an actinobacterial taxon in the family Dermacoccaceae. Hexavalent chromium can be reduced by the actinobacterium. Our goals are development of technologies using the bacterium for bioremediation of hexavalent chromium pollution. (3) We have developed a model animal using planarian in which coenzyme Q, a mitochondrial molecule for respiration and an antioxidant, level was reduced using RNAi technology. The animals show defects in the regeneration of a lost body part and in tissue homeostasis. As an animal assay, the animals are used for testing antioxidant.

Research theme

1. RNAi technology for cancer cell regulation and the cell biology
2. Basic and applied biological remediation of heavy metal pollution
3. Antioxidant and planarian regeneration

Research keywords
RNAi , cancer cell , bioremediation
Lab link

http://www2.teu.ac.jp/sugiyama/