RESEARCH
-Field of Biomedical Engineering-
Biomechanics
Our bodies are composed of cells, which receive mechanical cues from surrounding cells and the extracellular matrix, modulating their functional expression. In our laboratory, we employ experimental mechanics techniques to visualize micro- and nanoscale mechanical interactions and explore the causal relationship between cellular behavior and mechanical forces.
[Examples of Research Topics]
- Elucidation of the mechanical mechanisms of cancer metastasis
- Development of differentiation induction techniques for stem cells in regenerative medicine
- Techniques for maintaining stem cell stemness in regenerative medicine
- Understanding mechanical interactions between cells and between cells and the extracellular matrix
Biomaterials/Nanomaterials
Materials at the nanoscale (10^-9 m) exhibit functionalities that surpass conventional material expectations. One example of this uniqueness is the quantum effects on optical, electrical, and magnetic properties. Our laboratory is dedicated to discovering novel functionalities, understanding their underlying mechanisms, and developing technologies to control these materials. As part of this effort, we are working on the creation of a Smart Drug Delivery System (Smart DDS) and aim to develop next-generation nanocarriers for medical applications.
[Examples of Research Topics]
- Development and applications of magnetite nanoparticles
- Development and applications of mesoporous silica nanoparticles
- Development and applications of stimuli-responsive polymers
- Development and applications of novel nanocarriers utilizing targeting functions
Softmatter mechanics
Most of the human body, including cells and organs, is composed of "soft matter," which exhibits flexible and deformable properties. In our laboratory, we leverage the physical and mechanical characteristics of soft matter to design and develop novel functional mechanical materials and structural components. Through this research, we challenge various fields, including regenerative medicine, medical education, and robotics.
[Examples of Research Topics]
- Development of an ocular model for ophthalmic surgery simulators
- Development of soft actuators
- Development of sensors using soft materials
-Field of Micro- and Nanomechanics-
Micro- and Nanomechanics
The crystalline structures of metallic materials and other substances are governed by nanoscale mechanical phenomena, such as atomic and molecular interactions and microscopic deformation behavior. By elucidating these mechanisms, it becomes possible to precisely control crystal arrangements and properties, enabling the design of high-performance materials. For example, atomic-level defects and interactions, such as dislocations and grain boundaries, play a crucial role in determining the mechanical properties of crystals.
[Examples of Research Topics]
- Structural modification and performance optimization of metallic materials via electric current treatment
- Crack repair through electric current treatment
- Control of microstructures in materials via electric current treatment
-Field of Experimental Mechanics-
Experimental Mechanics
"Seeing is believing." Visualization plays a crucial role in understanding physical phenomena. Experimental mechanics is a field dedicated to developing advanced measurement techniques that enable such visualization and uncovering the underlying principles of these phenomena. In our laboratory, we focus on visualizing stress and strain at the micro- and nanometer scales to explore the intricate mechanical phenomena that lie within the details.
[Examples of Research Topics]
- Development and applications of digital image correlation (DIC) and digital volume correlation (DVC)
- Development and applications of mcro-rheology measurement techniques
- Development and applications of optical interferometric measurement techniques
