Department of Microbiology

In this course, we conduct research into the pathology of infectious diseases from the perspectives of both the pathogen-specific infection mechanism and the host response mechanism against it. In collaboration with the clinical group, we also study the involvement of the bacterial flora in the onset of various diseases. Furthermore, we conduct research leading to the development of vaccines against viral infections and the search for physiologically active substances that control infection immunity.

We are analyzing the pathogen-host relationship in infectious diseases with a focus on the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). We are also trying to identify bacterial flora abnormalities in the onset of various diseases. Furthermore, we are creating attenuated influenza virus strains and searching for physiologically active substances derived from natural plants to prevent and treat infectious diseases.

With a view to the characteristics of pathogens and host responses, we have conducted basic research to develop methods for diagnosing, treating, and preventing infectious diseases and intractable inflammatory diseases. For example, we have demonstrated that (1) MHC class II is regulated by ubiquitination via MARCH-I E3 ubiquitin ligase, (2) that cellular immunity is more important than antibodies in defense against varicella-zoster and chickenpox viruses, (3) that interesting physiologically active substances can be found in natural plants and can suppress inflammation caused by infection, and (4) that there may be abnormalities in the intestinal flora of patients with pouchitis. Based on these results, we will continue to carry out broad and deep research that is directly linked to medicine and healthcare.