Updated : October 6, 2020

Cellular Interactions

Supervisors

Akira Nagafuchi

Chiyoko Kobayashi

Specialized Subjects

Our goal is to develop an understanding of biological phenomena at the molecular level; particularly understanding of formation in multicellular animals, focusing on intercellular recognition, adhesion, and integration as processes necessary for the development of an individual. More concretely, students will study: the names and functions of cell adhesion molecules and their regulatory molecules, including the cytoskeletal system; the concept of cell morphology, polarity, and cell growth; and association between malignant cell development and cell adhesion. Understanding the detailed role of cell adhesion molecules in the development of epithelial tissues is particularly important for students. As practical approaches, they will obtain the latest knowledge by carefully reading related research papers, and discuss items to be clarified as the next step, with a view to developing appropriate thoughts.