Chair MIYAKE Kensuke
The growing concern in emerging and re-emerging infections increases demand for understanding and controlling these infectious diseases. Our department focuses on: the elucidation of molecular interactions between pathogens and hosts; molecular recognition of microbial products by the immune system; and molecular mechanisms controlling host defense systems. The department is composed of 5 divisions. We are going to understand molecular mechanisms underlying host-pathogen interactions and develop novel vaccines or approaches to control infectious diseases and related immune disorders. Our department has been successfully promoting joint research projects in the area of infection and immunity in collaboration with many other groups in Japan and foreign countries. The department is also promoting collaborative projects with IMSUT Hospital as well as various groups in pharmaceutical companies for the development of drugs as well as vaccines. Another important mission of our department is to promote development of young independent investigators in the fields of microbiology and immunology.