Kazuki Horikawa

Professor

Division of Bio-imaging, Advanced Research Promotion Center, Tokushima University

Q1. What do you do?

 I am conducting research on intercellular signal transduction from a different perspective than normal research, investigating the "when," "where," and "how" of the spiral signal waves generated in a population of 100,000 cells from various perspectives, including cell physiology, developmental biology, and sociology. The probe development and imaging techniques I learned in Nagai's lab are useful for visualizing the exchange of information between cells. In collaboration with Nagai laboratory, we are also working on large-scale, high-definition imaging of a population of 100,000 cells, which cannot be captured with an ordinary microscope. The spiral signal wave is similar to the signal dynamics during a heart attack or epileptic seizure, but the mechanism by which this occurs on its own has been a mystery for 100 years. I am hoping that our ongoing research will help to solve this mystery.

Q2. What have you applied to your current work from what you learned at Nagai Lab, and how has it been utilized.

 The research itself, the lab management, the way of drinking, there are so many things that have helped me a lot, but if I had to pick one, it would be the invaluable friends I have made in Nagai Lab. I joined the Nagai Laboratory at Hokkaido University during its inaugural period, and I was able to spend three years in an environment of uncharacteristic enthusiasm, as the laboratory was full of highly motivated members, including Prof. Nagai and more than five PRESTO researchers. Not only there is in meetings, but also during experiments on the bench, we would forget about the time and have heated discussions. The ideas and various perspectives on life that I learned from them have become a great foundation that supports me today. In addition to my colleagues in the lab, I am able to carry out my current work with the constant help of researchers and manufacturers outside the lab whom I met through Prof. Nagai.

Q3．Message to juniors

 If you have decided to spend the most productive time of your life at Nagai Lab, you have made the right choice. I can assure you that I am an experienced person who has overcome hard daily life with my friends. Whenever you feel overwhelmed by teaching with love, you can count on us and our friends. Let's share the joyful future that awaits us after overcoming so many difficulties. Nagai Laboratory is exactly the place where you can have such an experience.