Division of Applied Chemistry in Bioscience
Biochemistry Frontiers

YAMASHITA, Y. Associate Professor

Our activities in combined biochemistry and molecular biology are directed at the analysis of novel functions of biomolecules and gene products. This involves the development of experimental systems for use on a range of model cells and organisms, and in vitro studies.

Insulin induces translocation of one of the glucose transporters, GLUT4, from the cell interior to the surface to allow glucose to enter cells. Defect in regulation of the number of GLUT4 on the cell surface triggers serious health problems and diseases such as diabetes mellitus. We have found that some chemicals contained in foodstuffs are able to modulate GLUT4-translocation, which could be useful to improve our health.

Biochemistry Frontiers Web Site