Projects
- Discovery, structure-activity relationship, and synthesis-based drug development of natural molecules selective for intractable cancer types
- Application of novel bioactive natural products-based chemical probe to basic biology
- Chemical conservation of rare tropical rainforest plants by isolation and structure elucidation of natural products
１）Toward overcoming intractable and multidrug-resistant cancers
Our natural molecules-based research strategy integrates synthetic organic chemistry and biology. We are challenging drug discovery and elucidation of mechanisms of action using natural molecules that are highly selective for intractable cancers such as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), as well as multidrug-resistant cancer, which is a major obstacle to cancer chemotherapy.
Our group has discovered a number of natural molecules and their derivatives such as abietenes, noremophyllans, chalcones, and flavones, which showed novel and selective effects against certain cancer types. To explore structure-activity relationships, we are conducting medicinal chemistry approaches through the development of new synthetic routes and lead compounds for preclinical studies.
２）Chemical biology research using especial bioactive natural molecules
We are working to develop chemical probes based on discovered natural molecules that show specific activity against certain types of cancer. These natural molecules are expected to be used in next-generation precision cancer therapy with fewer side effects. Our goal is to contribute to basic cancer biology and diagnostics through the development of these chemical probes.
３) Chemical conservation of rare tropical rainforest plants by isolation and structure elucidation of natural products
Although tropical rainforest plants are threatened with extinction, many of them have not been phytochemically studied. Such plants may contain unique and attractive natural products that could be potential drug candidates. With a focus on these plants, we conduct exploratory research on natural molecules with novel skeletons and specific biological activities. Newly discovered natural products and their biological activities are stored as scientific data and could be used for future drug discoveries, including for rare and intractable diseases.
