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 Sanada Lab

JP

Affiliated Division, Joint faculties / Basic Biosciences Sanada Lab Neuroscience

Laboratory Website

Associate Professor Kamon Sanada

Assistant Professor Yasuki Naito

Subject of research

  1. 1. Mechanisms underlying neurogenesis
  2. 2. Machinary underlying neuronal migration
  3. 3. Molecular dissection of brain malformation in Down Syndrome
  4. 4. Neuroprotection in ALS

Deciphering how the brain is built and protected

The aim of our research is to understand the cellular/molecular mechanisms by which neural stem cells give rise to neurons and glial cells, and neurons migrate and mature in the developing brain. 
When the mechanisms described above are disrupted, brain developmental abnormalities occurs. For example, in Down syndrome, which is caused by 21 trisomy, neurodevelopmental processes are impaired, leading to microcephaly. Now, we focus on Down syndrome and investigate the molecular and cellular events occurring during the development of the Down syndrome brain. 
Furthermore, we aim to understand the neuroprotective mechanisms that neurons possess, and by activating these protective mechanisms, we seek to delay or prevent the onset of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis).
  • Mouse embryo (left) and embryonic brain (right)