Plant Molecular Cytology Laboratory (Tomoko Shinomura Laboratory)

We are conducting basic research to clarify the response characteristics of microalgae to the light environment at the molecular level, and research to create new species of microalgae. Microalgaes are an interesting group of organisms that have undergone various evolutions on this earth for more than 2 billion years, and many microalgaes accumulate lipids (oils). Attention is focused on the overwhelmingly high lipid production efficiency per unit area of microalgae, which means that it is expected to be used as a raw material for future biofuels. In our laboratory, we are actively conducting joint research with other universities and companies, along with graduate research students, Graduate School, postdoctoral researchers, and international students from overseas.

Elucidation of molecular mechanism for improving resistance to strong light stress of microalgae
The "strong light stress environment" is a major environmental factor that hinders the efficient cultivation and production of the microalgae Euglena, which is expected to be useful as a raw material for jet fuel, outdoors. Many microalgae have a problem that their growth is inhibited under too strong light such as the direct light of the sun, and the solution is an important research theme. In this study, we focus on carotenoids, which play an important role in intense light stress, clone all enzyme genes of the carotenoid synthesis system in Euglena, and proceed with detailed functional analysis and regulatory mechanism analysis. By doing this, we are aiming to clarify the relationship with strong light stress tolerance and to contribute to the highly efficient production of microalgae biomass.

Elucidation of the light regulation mechanism of the life history of microalgae
"Light" plays an important role in the growth and differentiation of microalgae. Regulation by light can be divided into "control through the drive of the photosynthetic system" and "control through the transmission of optical signals", but research to strictly distinguish between these has not been advanced in microalgae. We examine in detail the asexual reproduction cycle of Futatsunokunshomo isolated and cultured from the forest pond on the grounds of Forest Utsunomiya and Culture, and examine how its life history is regulated by light with a confocal laser. We aim to elucidate the detailed molecular mechanism by microscopic observation and transcriptome analysis.

Joint research with companies on biofuel production technology using microalgae
Through joint research with companies developing biofuels, we are working to connect our cutting-edge research to applications. Future progress is expected in the analysis of environmental responses at the genetic level of microalgae and molecular breeding.

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Introduction of Tomoko Shinomura