Synthetic design of function is a goal in materials sciences, and desirable control of biomolecular function is a goal in life sciences. Recent advances in synthetic chemistry and genetic engineering achieved supramolecular construction and elucidation of biomolecular function, respectively, whereas new functional design has been very limited out of these molecular systems. Understanding of structural dynamics of soft molecular systems is important for new functional expression.

  In A03 project, we will create new functions of soft molecular systems using synthetic chemistry and genetic engineering. In soft supramolecular systems, new functions will be designed based on self-assembled materials. In soft biomolecular systems, functional conversions and modifications will be attained by use of site-directed mutagenesis. We believe “softness” and “flexibility” of these complex molecular systems being a key to successful functional design. For this aim, we will collaborate with the groups of theoretical and computational chemistry (A01 project) and those of advanced spectroscopic techniques (A02 project), leading to original functional design of soft molecular systems.