Team leader

Objectives of the team

To establish the research basis for developing safe and effective vaccines by determining the interactions between viral and host molecules

Description of research and development by the team

Elucidation of host–pathogen interactions, such as identification of viral receptors and immune escape mechanisms, is an integral part of vaccine development. In particular, when a new virus emerges, the identification of host receptors for the virus is essential to determine the vaccine efficacy and establish animal models. Therefore, this team pursues the development of a system for the rapid identification of host–pathogen interactions, such as identification of viral receptors, which is applicable to various viruses.

The most serious problem of current mRNA vaccines is the occurrence of adverse reactions, such as fever and myocarditis. Severe adverse reactions can also decrease vaccination rates; however, the exact cause of adverse reactions remains unknown. Therefore, this team elucidates mechanisms underlying adverse reactions to vaccines and develops mRNA vaccines that do not lead to adverse reactions.

Tasks of the team

1. 1To develop rapid analysis systems for determining interactions between host and various pathogen molecules using cDNA and CRISPR libraries. In particular, the team develops a system to rapidly identify host–pathogen interactions using screening cells prepared in advance.
2. 2To elucidate the mechanisms of adverse reactions and persistent immune responses to vaccines through single-cell analysis using RNAseq and mass cytometry of specimens from individuals who received mRNA vaccines.
3. 3To identify vaccine antigens and vaccination methods to induce effective immunity with minimal adverse reactions based on the elucidated host–pathogen interactions.