Most biomaterials have high viscosity, therefore accurate patterning is difficult to do. The PELID method developed by our research group is an inkjet technique that allows for highly accurate patterning of highly viscous substances. This research report shows how we have established a 3D hollow device preparation technique using different biomaterials, a technique that until now has been thought to be difficult to achieve.

A number of molecules involved in development of neural circuits have been identified, but the entire mechanism integrating various roles of each molecule has been unclear. Our research focuses on α-chimaerin, a regulatory factor for axon-guidance, and has tried to elucidate its roles in neural circuit formation in the brainstem and cerebellum, important regions for motor control. We measure reflexive eye movements, known to be highly quantitative, and compare α-chimaerin mutant mice with wild-type mice, in order to analyze the correlation between deficits in neural circuit formation and impairments in motor control. Our results will also provide a better understanding of the mechanisms of motor control and learning.

Our research has shown that adhesion is inhibited in certain tissues where the α3 chain of Type-V collagen (α3(V)) is specifically expressed. α3(V) seems to exhibit an anti-adhesion activity by preventing the fibril formation. We are currently establishing a method of α3(V) purification to develop a novel adhesion therapy using α3(V). Anti-adhesive and anti-fibrotic effects of of α3(V) can be validated by its administration into murine adhesion models.