Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University

Research

Material Design

Designing materials contributing to human society and their realization through “Chemistry”

By using various materials, humankind has made life more convenient, resulting in developed societies. In order to realize a more prosperous future, the development of more useful materials continues to be an important requirement. Materials are composed of atoms and molecules. Their specific functions are achieved by choosing constituent elements and controlling their structural arrangement. In material science, it is necessary to overcome the boundaries between classical fields such as inorganic chemistry and organic chemistry, by combining knowledge from all domains. For example, organic-inorganic hybrid materials are developed very actively. When synthesizing a target substance, knowledge from various fields such as physical chemistry and electrochemistry is applied. We realize novel materials based on "Chemistry" with a deep understanding of structures, physical properties, and synthesis methods.

 

Environment / Analysis / Chemical engineering

“Chemistry” addressing new global challenges

The global economic development causes enormous consumption of energy, environmental pollution and extreme weather phenomena. In order to resolve these urgent tasks that we are facing right now, global science and technology including environmental chemistry, analytical chemistry and chemical engineering are of high importance. For example, early local warning systems can be realized by developing the technology for capturing and measuring air particles detrimental to human and animal health. Inexpensive portable analytical devices enable us to verify our health condition or to check the safety of our food and drinking water, even in situations where infrastructure is not available or not restored, such as in areas affected by a disaster. Fine bubble science originating in Japan and computer simulation technology contribute to environment purification, safe washing and water purification processes.

Organic Science

Discovery and synthesis of organic molecules for clarification of biological phenomena

“Total synthesis” is the artificial chemical synthesis of natural substances from minimal starting blocks. It allows us to obtain drug substances with complex molecular structures such as anticancer agents and antimalarials, among many others. In addition, functional organic materials such as transporters and reservoirs of various compounds are developed through the precise molecular design and synthesis of amphiphiles. Considering the unique phenomena in living systems as complex interactions of organic molecules, subtle differences between harmful toxins and beneficial medicines as well as the mechanism behind diseases can be clarified at the molecular level. In the field of organic sciences, we aim to clarify complicated natural and biological phenomena through molecular design and synthesis of organic compounds.

Bioscience

Understanding of biological systems and creation of bio-inspired materials from the standpoint of chemical biology

“Chemical biology” is one of the most promising fields to understand complex biological systems in terms of chemistry. Furthermore, deep insights into such biological systems open an avenue for the development of materials that can contribute to improving and sustaining the quality of our lifes. 
The core subjects in our research field include:

  • Clarification of cellular signal transduction mechanisms
  • Design and synthesis of natural and artificial bioactive molecules
  • Design and synthesis of soft matter and biomacromolecules