Activities

We have been researching parasitic diseases in Mbita and Kwale, Kenya, cooperating with Kenya Medical Research Institute （KEMRI） and Maseno University. In 2021, we started a new project on schistosomiasis with the support of the MEXT Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research （A）. In 2023, we launched a new project, “Integrated Research and Development for the Control and Elimination of Schistosomiasis”, as the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development （SATREPS） project. We also try to develop ideal monitoring and diagnostic methods for schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis with the Global Health Innovative Technology Fund （GHIT） support. In 2022, we launched "DEJIMA Infectious Disease Research Alliance" as a synergy center for Japan Initiative for World-leading Vaccine Research and Development Centers (SCARDA, AMED).

We have studied host defense mechanisms against Leishmania spp and Trypanosoma cruzi, and in the process, elucidated the function of the IL-12 cytokine family such as IL-27/WSX-1 during the infections. Furthermore, we have developed live attenuated vaccines for leishmaniasis and trypanosomiasis by editing genes using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. In addition, we have developed animal models of intestinal amoebiasis and devoted ourselves to studying the molecular basis of the pathogenicity of L.major and E.hystolytica the defense mechanisms of the host to them. In the laboratory, we maintain Schistosoma mansonoi, its intermediate host snails, Brungia malayi, B.pahangi and Aedes aegypti.