Sugar chains are formed when sugar is added to protein at the cellular level. While research remains ongoing, sugar chains have been linked to neural generation and differentiation, as well as to the correct functioning and dysfunctions of the brain. Prof. Nishihara’s team—which is comprised of experts in neuroscience, glycobiology and neuropathology—seeks to establish these links for neural stem cells, investigate the relationship of sugar chains to brain disorders and develop a treatment model.

“Comprehensive research into the relationship of the brain and glycosylation has just begun in the world,” said Prof. Nishihara. “There is growing expectation that the results can be expanded to develop regenerative medicines and provide new gene therapy solutions.”

In 2006, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology designated the Soka project as part of a government initiative to promote leading-edge research in private universities. Japan leads the world in the number of patents acquired and researchers involved in the glycobiology field.