.. kamagata

.. _kamagata-research:

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Research of Associate Professor Kamagata
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Unveiling the secrets of proteins from the perspective of molecular dynamics
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We have independently developed single-molecule fluorescence microscopy and related techniques to analyze the physical properties and functions of DNA-protein complexes from the perspective of molecular dynamics. In recent years, we have been particularly focused on researching **liquid-liquid phase separation** in proteins and **designing molecules that control molecular functions and biological phenomena** .


.. note::

    Liquid-liquid phase separation:
        Liquid-liquid phase separation is a phenomenon in which a liquid does not exist in a homogeneous state, but rather as distinct liquids that do not mix. 
        This phenomenon also occurs within cells, where specific proteins and other molecules come together to form droplet-like structures, playing various roles in cellular functions.

    Importance of liquid-liquid phase separation:
        - Understanding cellular structure and function: 
            Liquid-liquid phase separation plays an important role in forming cellular structures and providing the site for various biological reactions.
    
        - Elucidating disease mechanisms: 
            It is thought that abnormalities in liquid-liquid phase separation are involved in many neurological diseases and cancers.
    

    
    
.. figure:: kamagata-research.jpg
    :height: 400
    
    Measuring, controlling, and creating the collective functions of proteins

Researching liquid-liquid phase separation from three perspectives
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Measurement:
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Using our own custom-built equipment, we are conducting detailed observations of the process of liquid-liquid phase separation and the movement of proteins within droplets.

Control:
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We aim to artificially control liquid-liquid phase separation by designing and synthesizing specific molecules.

Design:
^^^^^^ 
We are designing artificial proteins that mimic natural proteins to investigate the properties of liquid-liquid phase separation and to create droplets with new functions.

We are conducting **joint research not only with domestic and international researchers but also with pharmaceutical companies**.

What this research reveals
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**By elucidating the mechanism of liquid-liquid phase separation, we hope to lead to the development of new treatments for these diseases.**

What you can gain from this research
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You can learn the following:

- Protein chemistry: Learn methods of molecular design.
- Experimental techniques: Acquire various experimental techniques such as sample preparation and single-molecule fluorescence microscopy.
- Data analysis: Learn how to analyze experimental data using custom software and extract meaning from it.

Regarding student guidance:
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We focus on:

- Provide detailed instruction on research methods.
- Engage in daily discussions to advance research.
- Foster a sense of excitement about the fascinating world of single-molecule proteins that can be visualized through a microscope.