Tokyo Women's Medical University

Graduate School of Medical Science

Environmental and Occupational Medicine

About us

Physical and chemical factors present in both general and occupational environments affect our health. Much attention has been paid in recent times to environmental exposure to toxic metals, dioxins, persistent organic pollutants, volatile organic compounds and fine particulate matter, as well as to the effects of global environmental issues on public health. Workplace exposure to organic solvents and metal compounds remains a key factor that causes harmful clinical or subclinical intoxication. The primary objective of research in our laboratory is to clarify the molecular mechanisms of toxic chemical-induced cell dysfunction and cell death (or cell proliferation) using the techniques of molecular and cellular biology. Identification of signaling molecules that promote cell survival or cell death is important for designing preventive strategies against toxic chemical-induced cellular damage. In addition to in vitro studies, zebrafish (Danio rerio) and the nematode C. elegans are utilized as model organisms in these toxicological research projects. Our recent research interests are focused on signal transduction pathways that lead to apoptosis and autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and subsequent unfolded protein response (UPR). In addition to the above areas of laboratory investigation, studies on healthcare administration and occupational health are ongoing projects in our department. We hope to welcome many young researchers to work with us on molecular and cellular toxicology research projects.

Research

1. Effects of toxic metals on the signaling pathways responsible for cell survival/death
2. Role of ER stress and UPR in toxic chemical-induced cell death
3. Toxicological studies on the cellular damage induced by nano-sized fine particles
4. Developmental toxicology using zebrafish as a model organism
5. Studies of life-span and stress response in C. elegans
6. Molecular mechanisms of the neurotoxic substance acrylamide
7. Investigation of occupation-related diseases and their prevention
8. Quality improvement in healthcare administration

Faculty

Masato Matsuoka, M.D., Ph.D.
Yuta Komoike, Ph.D.
Norihiro Nakajima, Ph.D.
Keiko Hirota, Ph.D.
Kota Fujiki, Ph.D.
Takamitsu Miyayama, Ph.D.

Related links

Research Achievements Database

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