Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University


Porous nanofibrils spun from supramolecules with intrinsic cavities

Researchers created a new type of microporous aerogel that overcomes limitations of conventional materials, enabling flexible and highly processable shapes. The material's flexibility arises from reversible van der Waals interactions between metal–organic polyhedra molecules.

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2026

New filter removes chemical contaminants from water even at very low concentrations

A team of researchers has developed a new membrane material that can detect and remove pharmaceutical chemicals from water at trace levels. The new approach uses a polymer membrane with an interconnected network of pores, which are designed to capture larger molecules, allowing for more effective filtration.

State-of-the-art integrated imaging system allows mapping of brain cells responsible for memory

Researchers developed an advanced imaging system to identify cells storing memory in a tiny worm, offering a new way to investigate molecular substrates of memory. The study may lead to understanding how memory loss occurs in humans and potentially develop therapies for memory disorders.

SourceInstitute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences, Kyoto University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2014

A simple and versatile way to build 3-dimensional materials of the future

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a novel method to assemble graphene into porous 3D structures, overcoming the challenge of maintaining unique material properties. The technique uses interfacial complexation with oppositely charged polymers, enabling tunable porosity and scalability for large-area films.

Faster, cheaper gas and liquid separation using custom designed and built mesoscopic structures

Researchers at Kyoto University's iCeMS have developed a process to create custom-designed porous coordination polymer architectures for high-efficiency, low-cost gas and liquid separation. The new method, called 'reverse fossilization,' transforms inorganic materials into organic structures with preserved shape and form.

DNA motor programmed to navigate a network of tracks

Researchers at Kyoto University and the University of Oxford have successfully constructed a DNA motor capable of navigating a programmable network of tracks with multiple switches. The breakthrough uses DNA origami technology, allowing for autonomous nanoscale devices to produce predictable outputs based on different starting conditions.

Shining new light on air pollutants using entangled porous frameworks

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a porous framework that can capture common air pollutants and emit glowing colors when exposed to ultraviolet light. This breakthrough enables the creation of portable, solid-state pollution detectors with potential applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and industry.

Softening crystals without heat: Using terahertz pulses to manipulate molecular networks

Researchers at Kyoto University have successfully developed a method using terahertz pulses to manipulate molecular networks in crystalline form. This technique softens crystals without raising temperatures, allowing for potential advances in chemical synthesis and pharmaceutical refinement.

Building a smaller, lighter future: Understanding polymer behaviors below 1 nanometer

Scientists at Kyoto University have developed a new method to study polymers in confined spaces, revealing unexpected thermal transitions and potential breakthroughs in nanoscale manufacturing. The technique uses porous coordination polymers to trap polymers, allowing researchers to observe their behavior under controlled conditions.