RESEARCH

Bioresources Chemistry

Laboratory of Bioresources Chemistry investigates various biomolecules such as carbohydrates and proteins found in the forest sphere. The structural and functional specificity of biomolecules is a “good role model” to innovate new-concept materials and processes towards next-generation eco-industries. In particular, supramolecular architectures of natural carbohydrates have recently attracted much attention as smart materials from bio- and nano-engineering perspectives. Cellulose (β-1,4-linked D-glucopyranose), which forms the main constituent of plant cell walls, is the most abundant and renewable bioresources. This polysaccharide shows specific unique features for the hierarchical organization by self-assembly. We have pursued our studies of the advanced biomaterials of cellulose and related carbohydrates for biomedical and glycoengineering applications. Besides, unique enzymes produced by forest microorganisms are promising tools for future green chemistry and industries in a sustainable society, and we have challenged the developments of advanced biofactory by fine-tuning various biocatalysts via biotechnology. Clean energy supply is also an important issue, and thus we have energetically pushed forward the developments of paper-structured catalysts to produce hydrogen for fuel cell applications. Our laboratory has continued the pioneering challenges to realize “state-of-the-art” green materials and processes, based on the sustainable forest blessing.

Bioresources Chemistry

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