Dept. Immunobiology

 

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[From Bench to Bedside] Tackling unresolved disease mechanisms with cutting-edge immunology.

This year marks the 18th anniversary of our department. We conduct research on host defense mechanisms (immunology), focusing on the recognition mechanisms of NK cells and T cells, with the ultimate goal of overcoming diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. A major strength of our laboratory is our ability to fully utilize genome editing and genetic recombination technologies to independently create original animal models, cells, and artificial antibodies. This capability allows us to advance our research all the way to the development of novel diagnostic methods and therapeutics.

Our department head, Professor Kouetsu Ogasawara, is a world-renowned pioneer in NK cell research, and our core findings are consistently published in top-tier journals such as Nature and Immunity. In recent years, we have continued to produce world-leading achievements, including the development of a comprehensive T cell receptor analysis system (for which we hold an international patent), the discovery of NK cell death caused by trogocytosis, the identification of the mutating enzyme of the novel coronavirus, and the elucidation of the pathogenic mechanisms behind metal allergies. We provide an exceptional environment where young researchers can engage in world-class science and earn high recognition, as demonstrated by one of our graduate students receiving the prestigious JSPS Ikushi Prize.

Furthermore, Assistant Professor Kazuki Watanabe is leading cutting-edge research from the novel perspective of “oral-systemic interactions”. This innovative work actively incorporates the latest analytical techniques, including brain function analysis and single-cell analysis.
Throughout our history, students from highly diverse academic backgrounds—including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, science, engineering, and agriculture—have thrived in our laboratory. We broadly welcome anyone who possesses a strong interest and deep enthusiasm for research. Why not join us and experience the profound excitement and true thrill of conducting research that astounds the world?

Research Topics

・Functions and Roles of NK Cells
・Elucidation of Immune Evasion Mechanisms in Cancer
・Elucidation of Trogocytosis
・Elucidation of Pathogenic Mechanisms of Allergies
・Oral-Systemic Interactions

Selected Publications

1. Watanabe, K., et al.: Highly purified hypochlorous acid water facilitates glucose metabolism and memory formation in type 2 diabetic mice associated with altered-gut microbiota. : Scientific Reports. 14, 1, 16107., 2024
2. Yasaka, K., et al.: Phospholipase D4 as a signature of toll-like receptor 7 or 9 signaling is expressed on blastic T-bet + B cells in systemic lupus erythematosus : Arthritis Research and Therapy. 25, 1, 200., 2023
3. Inamori, K., et al.: Importance of lymph node immune responses in MSI-H/dMMR colorectal cancer : JCI insight. 6, 9, e137365. 2021
4. Kosuge, M., et al.: Point mutation bias in SARS-CoV-2 variants results in increased ability to stimulate inflammatory responses: Scientific Reports. 10, 1, 17766., 2020
5. Takeda, K., et al.: IFN-γ is required for cytotoxic T cell-dependent cancer genome immunoediting: Nature Communications. 8, 14607., 2017

Research Interests

NK cell, NKG2D, cancer, autoimmune, infection

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