Molecular Gerontology

Masafumi Ito, M.D., Ph.D.

Researcher : Yasunori Fujita, Ph.D.

MicroRNA,　Neurodegenerative diseases, Muscle atrophy, Prostate cancer, Oxidative stress, Phytochemical, Molecular hydrogen

1. Identification of microRNAs that could serve as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets
Using global gene expression profiling, we aim to identify microRNAs that could serve as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for various diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases.

2. Molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant transformation and chemoresistance of prostate and bladder cancer
We aim to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the malignant transformation and chemoresistance of prostate and bladder cancer and to identify genes that could serve as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

3. Studies on the functions of naturally-derived compounds
We aim to prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases and muscle atrophy by activating Nrf2/ARE signaling and inhibiting expression of genes involved in degradation of muscle proteins, respectively.

4. Studies on the molecular mechanisms of hydrogen effects
We aim to elucidate the mechanisms underlying hydrogen effects on various diseases and to identify its target molecules.