RIKEN–Seiko Collaboration Center
JP
Our Research
- Top
- Our Research
- Top
- Our Research
Motto
Guided by our motto, "Let's enjoy science and engineering for a better society," we pursue research through both science and engineering. Our distinctive approach connects the understanding of biological phenomena with medical applications and practical implementation, using technologies that observe and measure individual biomolecules. Our interdisciplinary work spans molecular engineering, including gene design and protein synthesis and modification; assay development using biomolecules as sensors; device development, including nano- and microdevices and automated instruments; and data analysis using AI and machine learning. By integrating these technologies, we advance fundamental single-molecule biophysics and apply our findings to medicine, including rapid infectious disease testing and the discovery of biomarkers for early cancer detection. Through partnerships with medical institutions and industry, we aim to bring our research into healthcare and society.
Research Projects
Single-Molecule Biophysics of Biomolecules
We measure the functions of enzymes, membrane proteins, and other biomolecules one molecule at a time. By also using AI to uncover the principles linking molecular structure and sequence to function, we seek a detailed understanding of their mechanisms.
- References
- PNAS(2018b), Nat Commun(2014b)
Advancing Digital Liquid Biopsy
We apply single-molecule measurement technologies to biological samples to develop tests that detect cancer, infectious diseases, dementia, and other conditions earlier and from multiple perspectives.
- References
- Sci Adv(2020), Commun Biol(2021), Commun Biol(2022), PNAS(2025)
Working with industry and medical institutions, we connect instrument development with validation using clinical samples, aiming to translate single-molecule measurement technologies into tools for clinical practice.
- References
- Lab Chip(2023), iScience(2024), Cell Rep Phys Sci (2026)
Precision automation x AI
Making biological experiments autonomous
The RIKEN–Seiko Collaboration Center (RSCC) combines precision automation with AI to advance biological experiments that have traditionally depended on researchers' experience and skills. We aim to build a next-generation research platform that learns from experimental data and independently proposes and performs subsequent experiments.