Kazuhisa Murai Kazuhisa Murai

Assistant Professor, School of Health Sciences, Kanazawa University *Profile is at the time of the award.

2026HagukumuBiology & Life sciences(hagukumu)

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Research topics: Development of Antiviral Strategies Based on the Multistep Regulation of Viral Infection by Lipases

Keyword

Summary: This research aims to elucidate a novel mechanism by which a specific host protein, traditionally known as a lipid metabolism enzyme, suppresses the innate immune response during viral infection. This protein is multifunctional; it not only promotes viral cellular entry but also strongly inhibits intracellular host defense reactions. By clarifying this multistep regulatory mechanism, we aim to develop an innovative "host-targeted" antiviral strategy that remains effective regardless of viral mutations.

Message

Unraveling the "metabolism-immunity crosstalk," where a lipid metabolism enzyme regulates immunity, has the potential to trigger a paradigm shift in infection immunology. "Host-targeted therapy," which targets host factors exploited during infection rather than the virus itself, is a highly versatile strategy that can circumvent the risk of drug-resistant viruses. Through this research, I am fully committed to taking on the challenge of revolutionizing our understanding of host responses to infectious diseases and creating a universal viral control platform capable of countering future pandemics.