Name: Dr. Koji Akasaka

Position: Director & Professor

Research Description:

Arylsulfatase (Ars) has been considered to be a lysosomal enzyme. However, using sea urchin embryos, we have shown that this protein has a role as an extracellular matrix, and that this is also true in mouse and rat. Though mutation of Ars leads to severe genetic disorders, the mechanism of pathogenesis is unclear and there is yet no cure. We are working in collaboration with medical researchers and private companies to elucidate the function of Ars and the mechanism of pathogenesis due to mutation in mammals.

Contact Information

Web Page: http://www.mmbs.s.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/research/akasaka-e.html