Ichiro Kato

Title: Innovations in C-terminal Amidation: The Patents of Ichiro Kato

Introduction: Ichiro Kato, an accomplished inventor based in Sendai, Japan, has contributed to the field of enzyme research with his innovative patents. With a total of two patents to his name, Kato has made significant strides in the preparation of enzymes that play a critical role in C-terminal amidation processes.

Latest Patents: Kato's most recent patent revolves around a method for preparing enzymes involved in C-terminal amidation. The first enzyme, referred to as enzyme-I, is purified from biological materials and is capable of acting on a peptide C-terminal glycine adduct to form a C-terminal α-hydroxyglycine adduct. This enzyme operates optimally at a pH level between 5 and 7 and at temperatures ranging from 25 to 40 degrees Celsius, with a molecular weight of approximately 25 to 36 kDa. In a similar vein, purified enzyme-II also participates in C-terminal amidation, converting the α-hydroxyglycine adduct into a C-terminal amidated compound. This enzyme functions best at a pH of 5 to 6 and at temperatures between 15 and 35 degrees Celsius, with a molecular weight of around 40 to 43 kDa. Kato's methodology includes the use of affinity chromatography for enzyme purification and high-performance liquid chromatography for verifying enzyme activity.

Career Highlights: Throughout his career, Ichiro Kato has focused on advancing the understanding and application of enzymes in biological processes. His work at Shiseido Company, Limited, has placed him at the forefront of biochemical innovations, particularly in cosmetics and related fields.

Collaborations: Collaboration is key to innovation, and Kato has worked alongside esteemed colleagues such as Toshii Iida and Toshihiko Kaminuma. Together, they have contributed to the collective advancement of enzyme research and its practical applications.

Conclusion: Ichiro Kato's innovative approach to C-terminal amidation through enzyme preparation has the potential to significantly impact various industries, particularly cosmetics. His patents not only highlight his expertise but also demonstrate the collaborative effort in scientific research that drives innovation forward.