Wataru Shihoya Wataru Shihoya

Associate Professor, School of Medicine, Keio University *Profile is at the time of the award.

2026HagukumuBiology & Life sciences(hagukumu)

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Research topics: Structure-function analysis of a novel ultraviolet light channel rhodopsin and its application to optogenetics

Keyword

Summary: This study aims to create ultraviolet optogenetic tools based on the newly discovered UV-responsive channelrhodopsin ApuRh, thereby overcoming the limitations of conventional multicolor optogenetics. Using insect-cell expression, patch-clamp electrophysiology, and cryo-EM, it will elucidate the molecular basis of UV absorption and anion permeation. Structure-guided mutagenesis will then be used to engineer long-lasting and fast-off anion channels, as well as cation-conducting variants. Finally, AAV-mediated delivery into cultured neurons and mouse brain slices will be used to validate their functions, establishing a platform for multiwavelength control, GEVI-compatible all-optical optogenetics, and future BMI applications.

Message

Being selected for support from the Inamori Foundation is a great encouragement for this project. With this support, I will pursue the ApuRh project in an integrated manner, from elucidating its structure and function to molecular engineering and validation in neural systems. By opening up the largely unexplored wavelength range of ultraviolet light, this research aims to overcome the limitations of conventional multicolor optogenetics and achieve precise neural control without crosstalk. Looking ahead to both fundamental scientific advances and applications to neurological disease research and brain-machine interfaces, I hope to develop this work into an original and impactful platform that can be presented on the world stage.