Members

Theme Leader :
Shogo Endo, Ph.D.
Researcher :
Shuichi Yanai, Ph.D.
Associate Researcher :
Tomoko Arasaki, M.S.

Keywords

neuron regeneration, gene expression, memory, learning, neuronal plasticity, rehabilitation, drug repurposing, signal transduction

Major Research Titles

1. Molecular mechanisms underlying memory and memory improvement medicine and treatments
2. Generation of Models to reflect social problems associated with aging society (Solitude, Isolation from community etc)
3. Cerebellar functions underlying the physical rehabilitation.

Profile

One of attractive questions in the field of neuroscience is to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying memory. We can act only stimulus- response way if the neuronal network is fixed. However, we have neuronal plasticity (flexibility) in our brain to modify our behaviors and to survive in the ever-changing environment. The modified behaviors are stored as "Memories". We are attacking the mechanisms of memory by using multidisciplinary approaches.
Aging and diseases including Alzheimer's disease lead to impairment of memory. This causes burden to patients and their family. Revelation of the impaired memory mechanisms and its treatments need basic researches. The research will identify the targets for the medical treatment and provide basis for the coming regeneration medicine.

References

1. Yanai.S, Ito.H, Endo.S Long-term cilostazol administration prevents age-related decline of hippocampus-dependent memory in mice. Neuropharmacology 129, 57-68, 2018. doi: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.008.
2. Yanai.S, Toyohara.J, Ishiwata.K, Ito.H, Endo.S Long-term cilostazol administration ameliorates memory decline in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) through a dual effect on cAMP and blood-brain barrier. Neuropharmacology 116, 247-259, 2017. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.12.006.
3. Yanai.S, Endo.S Old drugs learn new tricks: drug repurposing saves the world! Atlas of Science, October 11, 2017.
4. Yanai S, Endo S. Early onset of behavioral alterations in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8).Behav Brain Res. 308, 187-195, 2016.
5. Yanai S. and Endo S. Knowledge of Signal Transduction Provides an Approach to Attacking Memory Decline. Aging Mechanisms; Longevity, Metabolism, and Brain Aging (N. Mori, and I. Mook-Jung, Inhee eds), pp257-274, Springer, 2015.
6. Yanai S, Semba Y, Ito H, Endo S. Cilostazol improves hippocampus-dependent long-term memory in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2312681-93, 2014.
7. Endo S. G-substrate: Cerebellum and beyond.Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science, Vol. 106 (Shenolikar ed.), pp. 381-416. Burlington: Academic Press, 2013.