Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2011-2012
Title: Asako Okada: Innovator in Lignan Hydroxylation and Episesamin Production
Introduction
Asako Okada is a notable inventor based in Osaka, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the development of enzymes and processes related to lignan hydroxylation and episesamin production. With a total of 2 patents, Okada's work has implications for various industries, including food production.
Latest Patents
One of Okada's latest patents focuses on lignan hydroxylase. This invention provides an enzyme with lignan-hydroxylating activity, capable of catalyzing the transfer of a hydroxyl group to lignans. Specifically, it can facilitate the hydroxylation of piperitol to 9-hydroxylpiperitol or pinoresinol to 9-hydroxylpinoresinol. The invention includes a polypeptide with this activity, a polynucleotide encoding it, and methods for producing the polypeptide using a transformant. This technology is particularly useful in the food sector and various industrial applications.
Another significant patent involves a process and apparatus for producing episesamin-rich compositions. This invention allows for the convenient and high-yield production of compositions containing episesamin at concentrations greater than 50 wt %. The process includes epimerization of sesamin or sesamin-containing compositions, converting part of the sesamin to episesamin, followed by selective crystallization to achieve the desired concentration.
Career Highlights
Asako Okada is currently associated with Suntory Holdings Limited, a prominent company in the beverage and food industry. His work at Suntory has allowed him to apply his innovative ideas in practical settings, contributing to the company's advancements in product development.
Collaborations
Okada has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Eiichiro Ono and Yuko Fukui, who have contributed to his research and development efforts. Their teamwork has fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to significant advancements in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Asako Okada's contributions to biotechnology, particularly in lignan hydroxylation and episesamin production, highlight his role as an influential inventor. His patents not only advance scientific knowledge but also have practical applications in various industries.