Infection and Immunity

Molecular biological analysis of foreign body exclusion mechanism in innate immunity

In immunity, which is a defense mechanism against bacteria and viruses, innate immunity has so far been considered as a non-specific and simple system. However, recent research results indicate that pathogen recognition mechanisms also exist in cells of the innate immune system and play an important role in the initial response to pathogenic microorganisms by inducing various immune responses through the production of cytokines. Became clear. We are working to elucidate the mechanism of recognition and elimination of innate immune cells for infections in the oral region.

Elucidation of the relationship between periodontal disease and systemic diseases

In recent years, it has become clear that periodontal disease is involved not only in the oral cavity but also in the onset and deterioration of systemic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, aspiration pneumonia, and rheumatoid arthritis. And epidemiological studies are being developed. In our laboratory, molecular biological analysis of the effects of pathogenic factors of periodontopathic bacteria and local chronic inflammatory response in periodontal disease on the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis It is carried out.

Development of a new quantitative diagnostic method with a focus on the onset mechanism of periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is a disease whose prevalence is about 70% in the 20s, about 80% in the 30-50s, and about 90% in the 60s. In Japan, a super-aging society, the number of elderly patients with periodontal disease is increasing, which is a major problem in medical and nursing care. Therefore, we are working on the development of testing tools that can detect periodontopathic bacteria and periodontal inflammatory reactions in a short time. This aims to establish a comprehensive diagnosis of periodontal disease based on scientific evidence.

Development of treatment and prevention methods for oral infections using sugar chains and nano-compounds

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease caused by oral bacteria in plaque. Therefore, approaches to both bacterial infection and inflammatory response are indispensable for the development of treatment and prevention methods. Although research on pathogenic bacterial flora and pathogenic factors related to periodontal disease is progressing, the identification of therapeutic target molecules and the realization of molecular targeted therapy have not been achieved. We are working on the development of new treatments and prevention methods for oral infections including periodontal disease through joint research with various companies and research institutions.

Elucidation of the relationship between oral microbiome and health status in childhood

Now preparing...