ThemeInvestigating roles of corticosteroids and their regulatory mechanisms in oogenesis, folliculogenesis leading to the ovulation, and embryo development, and applying the kowledge to inprove efficiency of in vitro production of embryo.
My DreamClarifying the roles of corticosteroids in oogenesis and ovarian physiology
Corticosteroids (glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid) produced by the adrenal cortex are crucial for keeping homeostasis. The ovary is exposed to the circulating corticosteroids throughout life yet little is known about the physiological effects of the steroids on the ovarian function. We have demonstrated that ovaries of various species such as rats, human and cattle express receptors and metabolizing enzymes for these corticosteroids and they are dramatically regulated during folliculogenesis and ovulation. These results strongly imply corticosteroids play important roles in the ovarian physiology. We are currently investigating roles of corticosteroids in the bovine oogenesis and embryo development. Our aim is to improve quality and efficiency of in vitro production of embryos.
The expression of glucocorticoid activating enzyme (HSD11B1) increases sharply in bovine cumulus cells surounding oocyte just prior to the ovulation (R). On the other hand the oocyte expresses the enzyme that mediates the opposite reaction (HSD11B2, L).
List of current research topics
Study in physiological roles of corticosteroid in oogenesis, fertilization and embryo development.
Related industries
Livestock industory, Reproductive medicine, Life science
Affiliated academic society
Society for Reproduction and Development, Japanese Society of Animal Science, British Endocrine Sciety, Society for Study of Reproduction
Academic degree
Ph.D.
Self introduction
I was born in Tokyo. After compleating B.Sc.and M.Sc.in Obihiro, I spent 10 years in Australia and Scotland. I am an OB of Hekiun Domitory and Kyudo club. I live in a countryside of Nakasatsunai village with my wife and a cat. I am a member of Nakasatsunai Riding Club but not very good at riding.
obihiro.ac.jp 
