Yokohama City University

Our Aim

The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of functional foods on protein profiles and signal transduction in humans using proteomic techniques developed in this research project.Backgroundarch Overview

During the study of the prevention of periodontal diseases a relation between periodontal diseases and lipid disorder was found, and proteins, which can reduce the toxicity of disease-causing bacteria, were found to have an effect on reducing visceral fat.

We will analyze the effects of functional foods on protein profiles in humans by proteomic techniques using mass spectrometry, which will be developed in this research project. In particular, we are interested in the change in the profile of phosphoproteins related to intracellular signal transduction events.

Achievements

We have comprehensively analyzed human serum proteins including phosphoproteins after the administration of functional foods and have identified changes in the expression of particular serum proteins. Based on the results, we have demonstrated scientifically the contribution of functional foods to the promotion of health.

Development of biomarkers and products for health improvements

Shigeo Ohno
Professor, Molecular Biology,

researchmap

Our Aim

We aim to identify novel biomarkers of the epidermis for the development of health products.

Background

The epidermis is one of the most accessible tissues for monitoring the health state of our body. Thus, if we can obtain a biomarker from the outer surface of the epidermis, it will represent a very convenient marker for the development of drugs and health products.

Research Overview

We will analyze the changes in post-translational modification (PTM) during the development of diseases in a model system. More specifically, we will focus on the outer surface of the epidermis to identify critical proteins and their PTMs. Such approaches will provide us with candidates for disease-specific biomarkers. Once such markers are obtained, we will develop products using these markers.

Achievements

By use of aging model systems and proteomics technologies, we have identified candidate biomarker proteins from the outer surface of the epidermis.