Location History:
- Noda, JP (2011 - 2016)
- Chiba, JP (2000 - 2017)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2000-2017
Title: Kozo Hirokawa: Innovator in Enzyme Technology
Introduction
Kozo Hirokawa is a notable inventor based in Chiba, Japan, recognized for his significant contributions to enzymology. With a portfolio of 14 patents, he has made groundbreaking advancements in the field of glucose measurement and amadoriase specificity, demonstrating a commitment to innovation within scientific research and application.
Latest Patents
Hirokawa's most recent inventions reflect his dedication to enhancing enzyme functionality. The first of these is an amadoriase with altered substrate specificity, designed to provide a high level of specificity to fructosyl valyl histidine. This invention allows for precise measurement of α-fructosyl valyl histidine derived from the β-chain amino terminus in glycated hemoglobin, even in the presence of ε-fructosyl lysine.
Additionally, he has developed a flavin-binding glucose dehydrogenase that boasts improved substrate specificity for D-glucose while showing reduced reactivity to D-xylose and maltose. This innovation features specific amino acid substitutions that enhance the enzyme's accuracy, which is critical for glucose sensors especially when large amounts of the enzyme are employed.
Career Highlights
Kozo Hirokawa's extensive career at Kikkoman Corporation has positioned him as a leader in enzyme innovation. His work not only contributes to the company's mission but also pushes the boundaries of research in biotechnology. His commitment to excellence is evident through his prolific patent portfolio.
Collaborations
Hirokawa has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed colleagues such as Atsushi Ichiyanagi and Naoki Kajiyama. These partnerships have been instrumental in advancing their collective research efforts, leading to important developments in enzyme technology and applications.
Conclusion
As a prominent inventor, Kozo Hirokawa's work has significant implications for the fields of biochemistry and clinical diagnostics. His innovative patents illustrate a profound understanding of enzymatic functions and their potential impacts, making him a valuable asset to the scientific community and his company, Kikkoman Corporation.
Inventor’s Patent Attorneys refers to legal professionals with specialized expertise in representing inventors throughout the patent process. These attorneys assist inventors in navigating the complexities of patent law, including filing patent applications, conducting patent searches, and protecting intellectual property rights. They play a crucial role in helping inventors secure patents for their innovative creations.