Metabolic Network Biology LAB.

OUR LAB AT A GLANCE

Humans sustain their own life processes by metabolizing substances (chemicals) produced by plants. Instead of relying on active movement for survival, plants have evolved into a lifestyle of complete self-sufficiency. Through flexible adaptation to environmental changes, plants orchestrate remarkable survival strategies. This strategy is driven by dynamic changes within the plant’s metabolic networks.

In our laboratory, we focus on organic compounds—specifically “metabolites”—which are fundamental to all living organisms. By employing omics analyses, we aim to elucidate how metabolic networks shift in response to environmental changes, breeding, and genetic mutations.

Metabolites are broadly classified into primary and secondary metabolites. Primary metabolites are essential for all organisms—including humans—to maintain basic life functions. Secondary metabolites, on the other hand, are biosynthesized from these primary metabolites. Among them, a diverse group known as “plant specialized metabolites” (PSMs) is defined by their unique roles: while not strictly required for fundamental survival, they are indispensable for specific life events and environmental interactions in plants.

Our research extends beyond the application of PSMs for human health and wellness. We aim to elucidate how plants allocate their self-generated energy, and the mechanisms by which they dynamically alter their metabolite profiles in response to environmental conditions and varying genetic backgrounds.

To deeply understand metabolic phenomena, mastering advanced instrumental analysis and bioinformatics-driven data mining is essential. In our laboratory, we emphasize learning these technologies from their fundamental principles. Our goal is not to train mere operators or data processors who blindly follow protocols. Instead, we are dedicated to nurturing problem-solving professionals—the “keystones of metabolism research”—who possess the critical thinking skills to overcome unprecedented challenges.

By scientifically deciphering this “mind of the plant”, we ultimately hope to maximize their innate capacity for metabolite production.

RESEARCH TOPICS

“Understanding biological phenomena through the lens of metabolites—this is my ultimate goal.”

■ Environmental Adaptation of Sessile Plants

Plants possess an exceptional ability to biosynthesize organic compounds (carbohydrates, amino acids, nucleic acids) from inorganic substances (carbon dioxide, nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus). However, for organisms that have chosen the path of “immobility,” surviving in an ever-changing environment presents a formidable challenge. In response to these demanding conditions, plants have evolved sophisticated countermeasures to ensure their survival. In our laboratory, we focus on “light quality”—the driving force of photosynthesis—and “inorganic nitrogen”—the indispensable building block for DNA and RNA. Through this focus, we aim to uncover the mechanisms behind the remarkably resilient environmental responses of plants.

■ Pursuing “Flavor” Through Omics Analysis

The sensation of taste fundamentally consists of the five basic tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. However, a truly rich culinary experience is only realized when the crucial element of aroma is integrated—creating what we recognize as “flavor.” In our laboratory, we utilize cutting-edge omics analyses to simultaneously profile both taste-producing compounds and volatile aroma components. By integrating these techniques, we are scientifically unraveling the true essence of complex flavors.

■ Unraveling the Soil Environmental Network Mediated by Volatiles

For plants, which are inherently unable to move, the interrelationship with their native soil environment is an absolute lifeline. While it is well known that allelopathic substances and plant hormones like strigolactones influence plant growth, our laboratory has uncovered a fascinating new frontier: the specific “aromas” (volatile organic compounds) present in the soil undergo dynamic quantitative and qualitative changes. Building on this discovery, we aim to decipher the hidden underground networks mediated by these fragrant cues and elucidate their true ecological significance.

■ Domestic and International Collaborative Research

While the term “metabolomics” might not yet be a household word, it is truly the key to understanding life itself. Because every biological activity is driven by the exchange of metabolites (chemical compounds), our research shares profound relevance with a broad spectrum of life sciences, including medicine, pharmacology, and food science. Our laboratory actively drives joint research projects with a diverse array of partners, both in Japan and globally. If you are interested in exploring collaborative opportunities, please feel free to contact me directly.

MESSAGE

Established in 2014, our laboratory is exploring the true frontiers of metabolomics. Because we are venturing into the unknown, we actively foster an egalitarian environment where everyone can voice their opinions flatly and freely, rather than adhering to a traditional master-student hierarchy. This kind of open, horizontal culture is exactly what I experienced as the default during my time studying abroad. We warmly invite you to join us for engaging and open conversations and discussions!

Why Join Our Lab?

• Integrated Perspective: Acquire the skills and knowledge to understand biological phenomena comprehensively and integratively.
• Hands-on Cutting-Edge Research: Conduct practical, high-level research using state-of-the-art analytical instruments.
• Career Advancement: Pursuing a graduate degree here opens doors to highly specialized careers in research-driven environments.
• Global Mobility: Depending on your research theme, you will have opportunities to conduct research at leading institutions both domestically and internationally.
• Logical Communication Skills (Our Japanese Language Policy): The official language of our lab is Japanese. By immersing themselves in this environment, international students will see their Japanese skills improve exponentially. Simultaneously, Japanese students learn to craft “logical and universally understandable Japanese” to communicate effectively across cultural backgrounds.
• Rewrite the Textbooks: Because this is an emerging and dynamic field, there is a real possibility that your discoveries could rewrite the textbooks of tomorrow!

 

PROFILE – PROF. MIYAKO KUSANO

T-PIRC PR MOVIE