At the Molecular & Cellular Biology Unit in Central Laboratory in NEKKEN, the state-of-the-art research equipment is provided including 8 Capillary DNA sequencers, High-throughput sequencers Real time PCR systems, Flow cytometers, Cell sorter system, Multiplex assay systems, Chemiluminescence imaging systems, and Multimode plate readers. Additionally, as the commonly used research equipment, MilliQ system, Ultracentrifuge machines, Vacuum Concentrators, Freeze dryers, Darkroom, and Laboratory cold room are also provided. Molecular & Cellular Biology Unit members (as of A pril 1, 2024, Fumika Mi-ichi, Akemi Ura, and Ayumi Fujimatsu) are in charge of maintaining these research facilities.

We are interested in biological phenomena presented by Entamoeba histolytica, the causative parasite for amoebiasis; for example, parasitic life cycle adaptation. We employ various approaches including molecular and cellular biology, lipid biochemistry, and omics. Currently, we focus on sulfolipid metabolism, very long chain acyl ceramide metabolism, and molecular mechanism under lying cyst formation in Entamoeba. As of April 1, 2024, members are Fumika Mi-ichi, principal investigator, Tam Kha Vo, Assistant Professor, and Kyoko Nagatomo, technical staff.