研究室紹介

Plant Production Physiology

Elucidation of photosynthetic function and dry matter productivity in plants, and establishment of the technologies to increase crop yield and to perform the sustainable agriculture.

We are conducting research focused on the "photosynthesis" and "substance production" of plants for stable food production in adverse environmental conditions. Utilizing a wide range of techniques and specialized knowledge, including morphology, plant physiology, molecular biology, genome functional studies, and bioinformatics, our goal is to understand the physiological functions of plants and contribute to sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.

Professor: Agarie Sakae
Associate Professor: Saito Kazuyuki
Assistant Professor:

Research Interests

1. Environmental Conservation Agriculture
In order to elucidate the mechanism that allows stable yields in fertilizer-free and pesticide-free cultivation, we are focusing on microorganisms involved in the decomposition of soil organic matter and the resistance of crops to pests and diseases. We are conducting microorganism analysis in both soil and plant bodies.

2. Creation of Stress-resistant Crops
To develop crops that can withstand adverse environmental conditions such as salinity, we are working on understanding salt tolerance and salt preference mechanisms. Additionally, we are advancing research on enhancing the photosynthesis of C3 crops through genetic modification and creating crops resistant to low nitrogen, salinity, and drought.

3. Utilization of Stress-resistant Plants
Describing the characteristics of resource plants, including salt-tolerant plants, we are exploring methods to effectively utilize them as crops. We evaluate the health-promoting effects of substances produced by these plants and conduct research on using them as functional food ingredients.

4. Environmental Restoration Using Plants
We are conducting studies on the phytoremediation of salts and heavy metals using salt-tolerant plants, as well as cultivating aquatic plants for water purification. Additionally, we are researching the utilization of these plants as biofuels for post-restoration use.

Keyword of Research Area

Agriculture, Biotechnology, Climate Change, Decarbonization, Energy, Environment, Food, Functional Materials, Genes, Genome, Grain, Metabolism, Microbes, Nutrition, Plants, Soil, Water Environment