The research group of Professor Kazunori Imaizumi and Assistant Professor Atsushi Saito from Hiroshima University, Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences succeeded in discovering a part of the mechanism for the production of astrocyte protecting the cerebral nerves. On July 23, 2012 (Mon), there was a press conference held on the Higashi-Hiroshima-Campus.

The press conference

The presenter, Prof. Imaizumi

Astrocytes are accessory cells, which play an indispensable role in keeping the neuron cells functioning in a normal way, such as performing the processes of nutrient supply, modification of neurotransmission, restoration of damaged neuron cells or forming the blood-brain barrier. The important key component for creating astrocyte is a transcription factor called OASIS. A brain without OASIS has almost no astrocytes, and is vulnerable to brain damages.



The research group is attempting to explain the molecular mechanism of OASIS protecting neuron cells in an adult brain. The group is also trying to develop a medicine to strengthen the function of OASIS and to heal cranial nerve disease.



These research achievements are published in the online edition of the English scientific journal “Nature Communications” (July 24).

For the documents distributed at the press conference, click here (Japanese) (1.72MB)

【Inquiries】

(Inquiries about research contents)

Professor Kazunori Imaizumi

Institute of Biomedical & Health Sciences

Hiroshima University

Mail: imaizumi(AT)hiroshima-u.ac.jp

(*Please replace (AT) with @)



(Inquiries about this article)

International Exchange Group,

Education and International Office,

Hiroshima University

Mail: inquiry(AT)office.hiroshima-u.ac.jp

(Please replace (AT) with @)