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Tokyo Institute of Technology


Across the metal-molecule interface: Observing fluctuations on the single-molecule scale

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a technique to analyze structural and electronic fluctuations on the single-molecule scale across the metal-molecule interface. This method provides information that cannot be obtained using conventional methods, with important implications for devices like organic solar cells.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 8, 2018

'Division of labor' between hemispheres of multicellular spheroidal alga controls light-sensitive movement

Scientists discovered that the anterior region of the alga is more sensitive to calcium ions than the posterior end, allowing for fine-tuned light-responsive motility. This finding advances our understanding of how multicellular organisms evolved to overcome single-celled limitations in photosynthesis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 21, 2018

Protein intentionally terminates own synthesis by destabilizing synthesis machinery -- the ribosome

Researchers found that proteins with specific sequences can trigger the degradation of their own synthetic ribosomes, leading to aborted translation. However, living organisms also possess a mechanism to counteract this phenomenon, allowing for precise regulation of protein expression in response to environmental changes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMolecular Cell·DateNov 20, 2017

Biophysics explains how immune cells kill bacteria

Researchers developed moving subtrajectory analysis to study TCR microclusters, revealing kinetic and spatial details of CD3 and CD45 behavior. The study shows that the two molecules exhibit distinct mobility states, depending on their location relative to the microcluster, providing new insights into T cell activation mechanisms.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 16, 2017

Formation of artificial cells with a skeletal support reinforcement to withstand application realized

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology create liposomes with a DNA-based skeletal support, allowing them to withstand osmotic pressure and maintain their structure. This innovation enables controlled release of entrapped compounds and opens up new possibilities for drug delivery and cosmetics.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 26, 2017

New carbon nitride material coupled with ruthenium enhances visible-light CO2 reduction in water

A new nanomaterial capable of reducing CO2 with high selectivity and turnover number has been developed by Tokyo Tech. The material consists of carbon nitride nanosheets combined with a metal structure known as binuclear ruthenium(II) complex, resulting in unprecedented binding of RuRu' to the nanosheet surface.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 12, 2017

Mixed valence states in lead perovskites

Scientists have discovered a new class of materials with mixed valence states in lead perovskites, exhibiting charge ordering and high thermopower. The study reveals the key to stabilizing these unusual valence states through tuning the energy levels of Pb 6s and TM 3d orbitals.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 9, 2017

Biofuel produced by microalgae

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have identified the key enzymes responsible for oil synthesis in microalgae. The research reveals that four lysophosphatidic acid acyltransferases (LPATs) play a crucial role in the formation and growth of lipid droplets, where TAG biosynthesis occurs.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalThe Plant Journal·DateFeb 28, 2017