DEPARTMENT OF BIOINFORMATICS AND INTEGRATIVE OMICS

Our department conducts comprehensive basic and translational research on pathogens and infectious diseases using advanced bioinformatics and multi omics approaches, while providing reference laboratory services and specialized training programs. We integrate cutting-edge bioinformatics and omics data analytics with diverse experimental methodologies to elucidate complex pathogen-host interactions and pathogenicity mechanisms. Through this integrated approach, we contribute to the development of novel diagnostics, therapeutics, and prevention strategies against emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. As a World Health Organization (WHO) Global Specialized Laboratory for measles and rubella, we advance global public health by developing innovative diagnostic assays, facilitating international sharing of pathogen genomic data, and delivering technical training to laboratories worldwide.

LABORATORY OF HOST-MICROBIAL MULTI OMICS

We utilize multi-omics technologies to analyze the interactions between pathogens and their hosts. Our research focuses on elucidating the mechanisms of viral entry into cells, replication, and pathogenesis, with the ultimate goal of supporting drug discovery and development. In addition to our research, we are responsible for the lot release testing of rubella vaccines and serve as a reference laboratory for rubella testing. In collaboration with the Laboratory of Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Department of Respiratory Viruses, we operate as a WHO Global Specialized Laboratory within the Global Measles and Rubella Laboratory Network. In this role, we facilitate international cooperation by standardizing diagnostic technologies.

LABORATORY OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTION

The laboratory conducts molecular epidemiological analyses of pathogens using bioinformatics to investigate the dynamics of infectious disease outbreaks, as well as regional and antigenic variations, both in Japan and internationally. Additionally, we investigate the evolutionary processes and genetic characteristics of pathogens through molecular evolutionary analyses of viral genes and computational predictions of protein three-dimensional structures. Furthermore, our laboratory is involved in the lot release testing of mumps vaccines and research related to their quality control.

LABORATORY OF STRUCTURAL BIOINFORMATICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

The laboratory conducts research in genomics and proteomics on pathogens. Biological data related to infectious diseases are integrated and analyzed using bioinformatics techniques. Data on the structure, function, and evolution of pathogen molecules contribute to advances in research on pathogen control, including risk assessment and the identif ication of potential targets for drug discovery.

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