Student written Research Laboratory Guidebook 2023Nagaoka University of Technology

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Laboratory for Biological Motility

Professor / HONDA Hajime  Associate Professor / FUJIWARA Ikuko

ProfessorHONDA Hajime

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J-GLOBAL

Associate ProfessorFUJIWARA Ikuko

profiles and activiities profiles and activiities at nagaoka university of technology
J-GLOBAL
  • Motility of muscle proteins at the molecular level
  • Novel Biodevices
  • Design your research projects to be your style

Supervisor

Professor / Hajime HONDA and Associate Professor / Ikuko FUJIWARA
Prof. Honda and Assoc.Prof. Fujiwara visit the student's desk at least once a day. They answer our questions very carefully. In addition, they sometimes purify proteins and observe samples by themselves. Both of them treat us as independent scientists and enjoy free discussions that have yet to be revealed.

Research Content

Myofibril molecules, primarily myosin and actin, are essential for muscle contraction. In our laboratory, we are working on in vitro reconstitution of muscle contraction and observation with an optical microscope equipped with various devices. These allow us to investigate the dynamic mechanisms of muscle contraction and force generation at the single molecule level. We are also developing biodevices such as cancer sensors that use actin and myosin in collaboration with companies.

One of the device attached fluorescence light microscope

A Day in the Lab

Our laboratory has no core time. Therefore, we can conduct experiments anytime like, during the daytime or, in the middle of the night. However, it is important to be independent. Because we can plan our own experiments, it is also our own responsibility to plan and carry out the experiments. The atmosphere in the laboratory is cheerful and laid back, and we sometimes enjoy chatting. Also, the professors and senior students are kind and always answer even the most trivial questions.

Fluorescence microscope allowing us to observe fluorescently labeled actin filaments

Thesis Subjects

  • (M)Large mass loss of actin fibers measured by QCM is caused by sliding motion
  • (M)Visualization of fluctuations inside actin fibers by FRET analysis and determination of P and B ends
  • (M)Ring Patterns Formed by Collective Motion of Actin Fibers

The number of
PhD Graduates

5

Major employers of Graduates

  • BOURBON CORPORATION
  • Fujitsu Limited
  • ECHIGO SEIKA, Co., Ltd
  • Fuji Baking Co., Ltd.
  • HOKURIKU GUS CO., LTD.
  • Nagaoka City Official
Writer : MATSUMOTO Naoki, Bioengineering
(national Institute of Technology, Gunma College)