2025年度TAMAGO採択課題

Development of a new system that enables measurement of spatiotemporal changes in photosynthesis

Development of infection control technology for difficult-to-disinfect protozoan infections using plasma nanomist

Development of a new system that enables measurement of spatiotemporal changes in photosynthesis

 
Principal Investigator: Prof. Shunsuke Adachi

(Division of Science of Biological Production, Institute of Agriculture)

 "Spatiotemporal Photosynthesis Research Team"

Photosynthesis, in which plants use sunlight to absorb carbon dioxide and create the energy they need to live, is the most important reaction supporting life on Earth. We have been conducting research to improve the photosynthetic capacity of rice, but conventional measuring devices can only obtain instantaneous values, making it difficult to capture temporal changes. In this study, we will develop an "automated opening and closing multi-chamber system" that can continuously observe photosynthesis throughout the day without damaging the leaves. This new technology will enable us to measure the photosynthetic dynamics of each leaf over long periods of time, dramatically advancing our understanding of plant responses to environmental changes. In the future, it is expected to contribute to the breeding of high-yielding crops and to improving the accuracy of global warming prediction models.

Members of the "Spatiotemporal Photosynthesis Research Team"

Development of infection control technology for difficult-to-disinfect protozoan infections using plasma nanomist

 
Principal Investigator: Prof. Daisuke Yoshino

（ Division of Advanced Applied Physics, Institute of Engineering)

 "Protozoa Killing Research Team"

Cryptosporidium and other hard-to-disinfect protozoa are highly resistant to common disinfectants such as chlorine and spread through water and food. They cause severe diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals and infants, and lead to poor growth and death in livestock. They also contaminate the environment through feces and wastewater, severely impacting public health. Our research team focuses on atmospheric-pressure, low-temperature plasma technology, which can inactivate microorganisms without chemicals. We are conducting research to apply this technology to infection control using a "plasma nanomist treatment technology." By imparting plasma-derived reactive chemical species and electrical properties to nanoscale water particles, we achieve efficient protozoan extermination. By elucidating the mechanism of action, we aim to establish a new infection control technology. With a view to demonstrating this technology in livestock farming, we hope to contribute to the realization of One Health/One Welfare as a sustainable, drug-free hygiene management technology.

Members of the Protozoan Eradication Research Team