Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo

Department of Biological Sciences
Graduate School of Science
The University of Tokyo

Labs Kato Lab

JP

Affiliated Division, Joint faculties / Advanced Biosciences Kato Lab

Laboratory Website

Subject of research

  1. 1. Discovery and Structural-Functional Analysis of Novel Photo- and Magnetoreceptor Proteins
  2. 2. Spatiotemporal Analysis of GPCR (Chemical) Signaling
  3. 3. Development of Novel Optogenetic, Magnetogenetic, and Chemogenetic Tools and Drug Discovery Leads

Seeing, Knowing, and Creating Proteins: Developing Innovative Biotechnologies

Proteins have evolved over extensive periods, filling nature with remarkable diversity and surprises. Therefore, understanding the molecular basis underlying their functions offers profound excitement, while successfully modifying these functions to surpass natural capabilities brings immense joy. Our laboratory integrates cryo-electron microscopy, artificial intelligence techniques, electrophysiological methods, and molecular pharmacology approaches to unravel fundamental principles of life, develop innovative biotechnologies, and discover drug leads. Beyond studying known proteins, we actively explore naturally occurring yet untapped functional proteins, elucidate their structural and functional characteristics, and refine them into powerful research tools.
  • Structural Analysis of Chemo- and Photoreceptor Proteins