Location History:
- Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki JP (2005)
- Ohwashi Tsukuba, Ibaraki JP (2011)
- Tsukuba, JP (2008 - 2012)
Company Filing History:
5 out of 110 
2 out of 832,680 Years Active: 2005-2012
Title: Takahiro Kikawada: Innovator in Insect Desiccation Resistance
Introduction
Takahiro Kikawada is a prominent inventor based in Tsukuba, Japan. He has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the area of insect desiccation resistance. With a total of six patents to his name, Kikawada's work has garnered attention for its innovative approaches to enhancing the survival of insects in extreme conditions.
Latest Patents
One of Kikawada's latest patents focuses on insect desiccation resistance genes and their applications. The objective of this invention is to provide polynucleotides that encode insect desiccation resistance proteins. To achieve this, cDNA libraries were produced from larvae in a desiccated state, leading to the construction of an aEST database. This process resulted in the successful isolation of three novel genes encoding LEA-like proteins, designated as PvLEA1, PvLEA2, and PvLEA3.
When secondary structure predictions and motif searches were conducted on the proteins derived from these genes, it was found that all three proteins exhibited α-helix-rich structures and LEA_4 motifs, which are characteristic of LEA proteins. Furthermore, the recombinant proteins synthesized from the PvLEA1, 2, and 3 genes demonstrated heat solubility even at boiling temperatures, indicating their highly hydrophilic properties akin to plant LEA proteins. The introduction of these genes into animal cells successfully conferred desiccation resistance, marking a significant advancement in the field. This invention represents the first instance of LEA genes being isolated from insects.
Career Highlights
Kikawada has worked at the National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, where he has conducted extensive research on insect biology and genetics. His innovative work has led to breakthroughs in understanding how certain proteins can enhance desiccation resistance in insects.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Kikawada has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Takashi Okuda and Masahiko Watanabe. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of research in the field of insect desiccation resistance.
Conclusion
Takahiro Kikawada's contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in insect desiccation resistance, highlight his innovative spirit and dedication to scientific advancement. His work not only enhances our understanding of insect
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