National Institutes of Natural Sciences

NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

C o n t e n t s
02

Summary

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Message from the Director-General

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Organization of the Institute05

Research Departments

12

Researcher's Voice

13

Research Centers

19

Joint usage facilities

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Young Fostering

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Student's Voice

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Research communities

25

Public relations activities
Common Facilities in Okazaki

Elucidation of
Pathophysiology
Promotion ofcollaborative study

Training Young
Researchers

HealthyLife
Development
and Utilizingof Technology

Elucidationof Physiological
FunctionsCuttingedge Researches

Goals for the NIPS
Physiology is the study of human beings and life.
The NIPS offers various types of the most advanced research devices andplaces for research using them to researchers belonging touniversities and other research institutes on a nationwide basis,as the promotion of joint usage research with other research institutes,
including national, public, and private universities throughout Japan, is one of its core duties.
In the NIPS, researchers with diverse backgrounds, belonging to it or universities orother research institutes, perform their research activities daily while desiring topromptly utilize the outcomes of their studies for social benefit and to
elucidate the science of life.

1Summary
Physiology
Physiology is the study of the functions andmechanisms of living organisms. “Living organisms”
refer to all living matter, including the human body.
“Functions” refer to the biological functions of anindividual, as well as those of its components(molecules, cells, tissues, and organs) and thoseneeded when multiple individuals lead social lives,
including morphological and psychological events. In short, physiology aims to elucidate biological functions byclarifying mechanisms at the levels of molecules, cells, organs, and individuals, and integrate them as a system;
therefore, physiology is also integrated biology. As one of the domains targeted for the Nobel Prizes is “physiology
or medicine”, it is an important academic discipline providing a basis for all life sciences, including medicine.

Roles of the National Institute for Physiological Sciences（NIPS）
1. Leading physiological research
The first duty of the National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS) is to: continuously conduct high-quality
studies on a global basis to examine living organisms at the levels of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, systems, andindividuals; organically integrate the outcomes of such studies; and clarify biological functions and mechanisms.

2. Providing a basis for research on physiology
Its second duty is to: offer our most advanced research facilities, equipment, databases, techniques, andconference halls to domestic and international research institutes, including national, public, and private universities
throughout Japan, as a joint usage research institute; and promote joint usage research by organizing diverse
events, such as study seminars and symposiums, as a basis for domestic and international research communities.

3. Training researchers
The NIPS provides 5-year comprehensive doctoral programs for the Department of Physiological Sciences, Schoolof Life Science at the Graduate University for Advanced Studies. It also contributes to the nurturing of physiologists
who globally expand their activities through training courses, lectures on various topics, and symposiums forstudents and young researchers belonging to other research institutes. The development of human resources
supporting research on physiology in- and outside Japan is the third duty of the NIPS.

2

Message from the
Director-General
NABEKURA,Junichi, M.D.,Ph.D.
National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS)
promotes cutting-edge research to understand themechanism of human body function from molecules/
cells to organs/ individuals, and also to the level ofsociality. We also conduct joint research with world-wide
researchers and educate young researchers.
In recent years, medical and biological research has
achieved great progress in analysis of constituent
molecules and disease-causing genes based on
genetic information due to the rapid development ofgenome analysis. The importance of these factors andthe causative genes of pathological conditions havebeen clarified by manipulating the expression and activity of each factor to capture changes in the functions of cells,organs, and individuals. On the other hand, many factors are intricately interconnected in vivo. To maintain human
function, how many factors interact to maintain the functions of organs, and how organs communicate each otherstill remain to be elucidated. For example, the brain is involved in complex functions such as sensation andmovement, sleep and eating, memory and emotion, and even social behavior, but also communicates with variousorgans to maintain individual homeostasis. However, their communication still remained to be elucidated. Heart beats
without rest for nearly 100 years without cell regeneration. The body is still full of mystery.
Recent research tends to focus on studying pathological conditions and etiology. On the other hand, what is“normal” ?; no answer has been found for this question. Living body/organs/cells constantly fluctuate to maintains
their homeostasis. National Institute for Physiological Sciences conducts research on the mechanism to maintainbody homeostasis from the perspective of molecules, cells, tissues, organs, and whole body for the purpose ofunderstanding their integration beyond their layers. In order to support a wide range of research fields, we introduce
the cutting-edge experimental equipment and technologies. In particular, in addition to state-of-the-art measuring
instruments such as advanced electron microscopes, laser optical microscopes, electrophysiological devices,
cerebral magnetic field measuring devices, and ultra-high magnetic field magnetic resonance devices, genemanipulating technology using genetically modified animals and viruses. We also aim to establish analysis
technology for large-scale data. As Inter-University Research Organization, we provide these advanced experimental
equipment and techniques for joint research with domestic and oversea researchers.
NIPS also focuses on educating young researchers. Many domestic and foreign graduate students study at NIPS,
one of the foundation organization of the Graduated University for Advanced Studies/SOKENDAI. We also accept thegraduate students enrolled in other universities. Young researchers are engaged in research in the free atmospherecharacteristic of our institute. Mechanism of the body is one of the most mysterious wonders and receives the mostcuriosity in society. In addition, their collapse could lead to the illness. To understand “Normal/homeostasis” will leadto the establishment of treatment for illness and appropriate prevention methods, which could make a significant
contribution to society.
Please visit to NIPS and conduct fruitful collaboration with us.

3Organization of the InstituteNational Institutes of Natural Sciences
Executive Directors
President
Auditors

Management Council
Board of Directors
Educational and Research Council

National Astronomical Observatory of Japan
National Institute for Fusion Science
National Institute for Basic Biology
National Institute for Physiological Sciences
Institute for Molecular Science

Department of Molecular & CellularPhysiology

Division of Biophysics & Neurobiology
Division of Membrane Physiology
Division of Neural Development & Regeneration
Division of Cell Structure
Division of Cell Signaling
Division of Cardiocirculatory Signaling
Division of Endocrinology & Metabolism
Division of Ultrastructural Research
Division of Cerebral Circuitry
Division of Homeostatic Development
Division of Visual Information Processing
Division of Biophotonics
Division of Behavioral Development
Division of System Neurophysiology
Division of Neural Dynamics
Division of Cerebral Integration

Department of Homeostatic Regulation

National lnstitute forPhysiological Sciences
Advisory Committee for
Research and Management

Department of Fundamental Neuroscience

Department of System Neuroscience

Director General
Research Enhancement
Strategy Office

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Section of Collaboration Promotion※
Section of Advanced Research Support
Section of NBR Project※
Section of Visiting Collaborative Research Project
Section of International Collaborative Research Project ※Section of Brain Structure Information
Section of Multiphoton Neuroimaging
Section of Electron Microscopy
Section of Brain Function Information
Section of Instrumental Design
Section of Viral Vector Development
Section of Mammalian Transgenesis※
Section of Behavioral Patterns
Section of Metabolic Physiology
Section of Research Archives
Section of Physiology & Medicine Education
Section of Network Management
Section of Health & Safety Management

Center for Research Collaboration

Supportive Center for Brain ResearchCenter for Genetic Analysis of Behavior

Center for Communication Networks

Technical Division※※Adjunctive divisions / sections★Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems

Okazaki Research Facilities
National Institute for Basic Biology
National Institute for Physiologlcal Sciences
Institute for Molecular Science

Research Center for Computational Science
Center for Animal Resources and Collaborative Study
Center for Radioisotope Facilities
Division of Coordinator for Animal Experimentation

Inter-University Research Institute Corporation National Institutes of Natural Sciences（NINS）
Inter-university research institute corporations are Japan’s original and high-level research institutes managed byresearch communities. In such institutes, which have been organized as bases to offer places for joint usage andresearch to researchers throughout Japan, pioneering researchers are engaged in collaborative research activities, withthe aim of developing new academic fields. The National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS) consist of 5 inter-university
research institutes: the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ), National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS),
National Institute for Basic Biology (NIBB), National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS), and Institute for Molecular
Science (IMS).

National Institute for Physiological Sciences（NIPS）
The National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS) is a research institute dedicated to studying human bodyfunctions, such as those of the brain, through collaboration with universities, and training young researchers as future
physiologists. It is also a unique inter-university research institute corporation for basic human physiology research andeducation in Japan. Man is a “thinking reed”, thanks to his well-developed brain. In the NIPS, diverse studies are
currently being conducted to examine the brain as the central system of the human body.

4Research Departments

01

Division of Biophysics and Neurobiology
Professor

KUBO, Yoshihiro

Structure-function relationship and regulation mechanisms ofion channels and receptors

Research
Departments

The aim of our research is to elucidate the functioning
mechanisms of ion channels and receptors. Toward theaim, we focus on the structure-function relationship,
dynamic structural rearrangements and situation
dependent regulation mechanisms of membrane proteins.
We utilize in vitro expression systems such as Xenopus
oocytes and HEK293 cells which enable solid and precise
biophysical analyses by purely reconstituting the targetm o l e c u l e s . We c o n d u c t r e s e a r c h b y c o m b i n e dtechniques of (1) molecular biology to isolate cDNA andintroduce mutations, (2) electrophysiology such as twoelectrode voltage-clamp, gating current analyses andpatch-clamp, (3) optophysiology such as FRET analyses
to detect structural rearrangements, voltage clamp
fluorometry, and single molecule imaging for subunit
counting. We also perform research using gene targeted
mice to identify the distribution, molecular/cellular function
and behavioral roles of orphan metabotropic receptors.

02

Simultaneous recordings of voltage-gated K+ channel current and its
structural rearrangements by voltage-clamp ﬂuorometry using
Xenopus oocytes.

Division of Membrane Physology
Professor

FUKATA, Masaki

Fundamental mechanisms for synaptic transmission and synaptic disorders
We will elucidate the core regulatory mechanisms forsynaptic transmission and finally address the fundamental
question, “How does our brain physiologically function andhow is the system disrupted in brain diseases?”. We havefocused on the regulatory mechanisms for AMPA-typeglutamate receptor (AMPAR) as AMPAR plays a central rolein learning and memory formation. Based on our specific andquantitative biochemical methods, we discovered two typesof AMPAR regulatory proteins: the DHHC palmitoylating
enzymes and the epilepsy-related ligand/receptor,
LGI1/ADAM22. So far, we have elucidated the physiological
functions of these two AMPAR regulatory proteins and theimplication in the pathogenesis of brain diseases such as
epilepsy and limbic encephalitis, by developing new methods
to screen the palmitoyl enzyme-substrate pairs and to
specifically visualize the palmitoylated protein, and byintegrating many methods such as super-resolution imaging,mouse genetics, and electrophysiology. We will elucidate themolecular basis in which these AMPAR regulatory proteins5

regulate synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions of mouseand human brains using the following our developed or
cutting-edge approaches and resources.
１）Analyses of in vivo protein-protein interactions２）Screening of palmitoylating enzyme library３）Live cell imaging with palmitoylated protein-specific probes４）Observation of synapses with super-resolution microscopy５）Mouse models of human epilepsy with the LGI1 mutation
palmitoylated PSD-95

A

B

AMPA
receptor

palmitoylated PSD-95

LGI1
ADAM221μm

Palmitoylating
enzyme(DHHC proteins)

palmitoylated
PSD-95depalmitoylated
PSD-95

Depalmitoylating
enzyme(unknown)
500nm

Figure (A) Two unique AMPA receptor regulatory proteins: DHHC
palmitoylating enzymes and the epilepsy-related ligand/receptor, LGI1 and
ADAM22. (B) Discovery of novel postsynaptic nanodomains by palmitoylated
PSD-95-speciﬁc probe and super-resolution microscopy: a synaptic DHHC
protein locally regulates the formation and reorganization of nanodomains.

03

Division of Cell Structure
Professor

FURUSE, Mikio

Molecular basis of the regulation of epithelial barrier function andparacellular transport

04

Freeze-fracture replica of tricellular tight junctions (left) and a model ofthe molecular organization of tricellular tight junctions (right).

Research
Departments

The epithelium maintains the fluid environment of each
body compartment not only by transporting various
substances selectively but also by working as a diffusion
barrier. To elucidate the mechanism underlying theseroles of the epithelium, we have been clarifying themolecular basis of cell-cell junctions that directly
contribute to the epithelial barrier function and passive
transport of solutes through the paracellular pathway. By
combinining molecular biological, morphological andphysiological analyses, the following research projects are
ongoing.
1) Analyses of the function and behavior of claudin family
proteins, major structural components of tight junctions.
2) Molecular dissection of tricellular tight junctions.
3) Analyses of the regulatory mechanism of cell-celljunction formation by using Drosophila genetics.
4) Response of epithelial barrier function to environmental
changes.

Division of Cell Signaling
Professor

TOMINAGA, Makoto

Clarifying the Functions of Thermosensitive TRP Channels
It was little known until recently how temperature is
detected although we survive by sensing a wide rage of
ambient temperatures. Capsaicin receptor TRPV1 is thefirst molecule involved in temperature sensation, and now
there are nine ion channels belonging to the TRP ion
channel super family. These thermosensitive TRP
channels not only sense noxious temperature andchemical stimuli in the sensory nerve endings but also are
involved in the various physiological functions including

ambient skin temperature detection, regulation of skinbarrier function, detection of mechanical stimulation inbladder and intestine, regulation of taste sensation, insulin
secretion from pancreas, regulation of immune cellfunction and regulation of neural excitability in the central
nervous system under the body temperature conditions.
Thus, most of the cells in our body which are not exposedto the dynamic temperature changes survive by detecting
temperature around the cells.

Thermosensitive TRP Channels
mint

cold

pepper

warm

TRPA1

TRPM8
menthol
receptor

TRPV3
TRPM4
TRPV4
TRPM5
TRPM2

hot

TRPV1

TRPV2

capsaicin
receptor

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Research Departments

05

Division of Cardiocirculatory Signaling
Professor

NISHIDA, Motohiro

Elucidation of biological functions using multilevel techniques to evaluate
cardiovascular functions and its clinical application

Research
Departments

Our cardiocirculatory function is mainly controlled bymuscular organs composed of striated muscles (heartand skeletal muscles) and smooth muscle (bloodvessels). Our group aims to elucidate the molecularmechanisms underlying transition of the muscles from
adaptation to maladaptation against environmental stress(mainly hemodynamic load) multi-level techniques toevaluate cardiovascular functions (in vivo and in vitro),
and work toward practical application (e.g., drug
discovery and fostering). We also investigate themechanism of muscle repair and regeneration, and aim todevelop a novel therapeutic strategy for refractorydiseases. In addition, we address the inclusive research
to elucidate the mechanism underlying maintenance andtransfiguration of cardiocirculatory homeostasis via
multi-organ interactions by combining non-invasive
measuring methodologies of motor functions and thosecardiovascular functions.

06

Figure. Measuring systems for cardiovascualr functions and summary of
our research using these systems

Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism
Professor

MINOKOSHI, Yasuhiko

The central regulation of whole body energy metabolim
The animal body has an integrated-regulatory system
for “homeostasis” that maintains a normal, constantinternal state by responding to changes in both theexternal and internal environments. Within the central
nervous system, the hypothalamus is a crucial center
that regulates the homeostatic activities by integrating
autonomic nervous system, endocrine system andimmune function. This division is investigating the roleof hypothalamus in body energy balance, especiallyregulatory mechanisms for food preference, taste
modification and metabolic control of skeletal muscle
and adipose tissues in mammals.

Fig. Discovery of neurons that induce selection of carbohydrate overfat. AMP kinase-regulated CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone)
neurons in the PVH is necessary and suﬃcient to induce selection ofcarbohydrate over fat after fasting.

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07

Division of Homeostatic Development
Director-General

NABEKURA, Junichi

Functional regulation of the neural circuits remodeling in development and recovery.
− Physiological role of the glial cells −Our research focuses on studying the long term
plasticity of neuronal circuits/synapses in physiological/
pathophysiological brain. We mainly employ various
electrophysiological techniques and in vivo imaging
with 2photon excitation microscopy to visualize themorphology and function of neurons in combination withgene manipulation and optogenetics.
Recent topic is to elucidate the physiological function of
glial cells; microglia and astrocyte. We are focusing
particularly on interaction between glia cells and neuronal
circuits. Our research has identified the contribution of
microglia to neuronal formation in developing brain and tomodulation of neuronal/synaptic activity. We are alsointerested in the role of astrocyte in pathophysiologicalbrain, such as chronic pain

08

Research
Departments

Glia (microglia) could regulate
the number of synapses bypromoting their formation andeliminating them in developing
and mature brain.

Division of Visual Information Processing
Professor

YOSHIMURA, Yumiko

The mechanisms of information processing in sensory cortex and theexperience-dependent regulation of that processing.

To this end, we are analyzing the visual responses ofcortical neurons using multi-channel electrodes or calcium
imaging with 2-photon microscopy, the properties ofneural circuits with a combination of laser scanningphotostimulation and whole-cell recording methods inbrain slice preparations, and the neural connections
morphologically using modern virus tracers.

Pa

Pb

Pa

L2/3

Pb

L4

L5

100 µm
0

100

200

300 pA

Number of events

In order to elucidate how specific neural circuits in thebrain are established during development and how thesecircuits contribute to the sensory information processing,
we are studying the following 3 issues using rodent
sensory cortex.
1. The mechanisms that establish fine-scale networks invisual cortex and the role of these networks in visual
information processing
2. Cell-lineage dependent establishment of neuralconnections and visual responsiveness in visual cortex
3. Activity-dependent synaptic plasticity and theexperience-dependent plasticity of visual responses

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Time (ms)The cross-correlation analysis of photostimulation-evoked EPSCs insynaptically connected pairs in visual cortical slices.

8Research Departments

09

Division of Biophotonics
Professor

NEMOTO, Tomomi

Innovative bioimaging for physiological functions and biological rhythms
by utilizing cutting-edge technologies of non-linear optics, materials, and laser

Research
Departments

We explore innovative bio-imaging methodologies andapplications for life- and medical sciences by utilizing
cutting-edge technologies of laser, optical, and materials.
Primarily, we are developing two-photon microscopy forrealizing invasive fast and super-resolution observations
and manipulations in living biospecimens. We hope thatsuch visualization technologies elucidate the emergenceand molecular basis of neural activities, including
biological rhythms. Recently, for high-speed threedimensional imaging, a multipoint scanning two-photon
microscope has been developed to realize molecularorientation imaging in a living body by ellipsometry. Also,
we have succeeded in visualization analysis of theneural activity in the deep brain of the living mouse andquantitative analysis of Ca 2+ -dependent exocytosis insecretory glands. Besides, we are conducting multifunctional imaging analysis of the circadian clock at thecenter of the circadian clock, optical imaging analysis of10

the circadian clock of intracellular organelles, and in vivo
optical measurement of the circadian clock. We are also
promoting the application of various animal models,cancer and diabetes models, and physiological functions
in plant cells.

Division of Behavioral Development
Professor

ISODA, Masaki

System-level understanding of social cognitive function
There has been a rapid progress in the study ofsocial brain function. In this field called social
neuroscience, studies on human subjects are surely
indispensable, as they can tell us about our social
mind most directly. Yet research using other animal
species, especially nonhuman primates, are also
crucial, as it allows us to monitor neural activities atmultiple levels ranging from single neurons to global
neural networks and additionally to employ various
causal approaches via intervention, thereby
complementing data in humans. To probe the neuralbasis of the self, others and their interactions at thesystem level, our laboratory applies cutting-edge
techniques, such as multi-site/multi-electrode neuralrecordings, pathway-selective intervention, and 7-T
MRI, to macaques performing various social
cognitive tasks.

9

Neural activities are recorded from multiple brain regions using
multi-contact electrodes with high spatiotemporal resolutions.

11

Division of System Neurophysiology
Professor

NAMBU, Atsushi

Mechanism of voluntary movements and pathophysiology of movement disorders

12

injection of neuronal blockers, optogenetics or
chemogenetics.
3）Elucidation of the pathophysiology of movement
disorders by applying electrophysiological methods toanimal models.

Cortical stimulation of the face, hand and foot areas in the motor
cortices of monkeys induced responses in the subthalamic nucleus(STN) and the internal (GPi) and external (GPe) segments of the globus
pallidus, and revealed somatotopic maps of these structures. These
maps contribute to stereotactic surgery, such as deep brain stimulation(DBS), for Parkinson’s disease.

Research
Departments

The brain areas, such as the cerebral cortex, basal
ganglia and cerebellum, play a major role in controllingvoluntary movements. On the other hand, malfunctionsof these structures result in movement disorders, suchas Parkinson’s disease and dystonia. The major goal of
our research project is to elucidate the mechanisms
underlying higher motor functions and the pathophysiology
of movement disorders. To explore such intricate brain
functions, we apply a wide range of neurophysiologicaland neuroanatomical techniques to rodents andsubhuman primates, such as macaques and marmosets.
The current topics under study are as follows:
1）Elucidation of information flows through the neuronal
networks by electrophysiological and anatomical
methods.
2）Understanding the mechanism how the brain controls
voluntary movements and higher brain functions byelectrophysiological recordings of neuronal activity fromanimals performing motor tasks, combined with local

Division of Neural Dynamics
Professor

KITAJO, Keiichi

Functional roles of neural dynamics
between neural dynamics and phenomena in different
layers such as autonomic nervous activity andexcitation/inhibition balance in neural circuits for the
integrative understanding of functional roles of neuraldynamics.
1040Frequency (Hz)We investigate the functional roles of a variety of
nonlinear neural dynamics such as oscillations,synchrony in brain information processing from acomputational neuroscience perspective based on
d y n a m i c a l s y s t e m s t h e o r y. W e d e a l w i t h E E G(electroencephalography), ECoG (electrocorticography),
MEG (magnetoencephalography), and fMRI (functional
magnetic resonance imaging) data in humans while
subjects are engaged in cognitive tasks, at rest, or
during noninvasive brain stimulation such as TMS(transcranial magnetic stimulation). We analyze thedata, and we try to understand the neural dynamics bymathematical modeling based on nonlinear dynamicalsystems theory, signal processing theory, information
theory, network analysis, and statistical machinel e a r n i n g m e t h o d s . We a l s o a n a l y z e c l i n i c a l d a t aobtained from collaborators and try to understandclinical symptoms in terms of altered neural dynamics.
Moreover, we try to investigate the relationships

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Data analysis

Recording brain
activity

Mathematicalmodeling

We record brain activity, analyze the data, and do mathematicalmodelling to understand and predict a new phenomenon.

10Research Departments

13

Division of Cerebral Integration
Professor

SADATO, Norihiro

Exploring neural substrates of human cognition by functional MRI
The goal of Division of Cerebral Integration is tounderstand the physiology of human voluntary movement
and other mental processing including language using
noninvasive functional neuroimaging technique, mainly
fMRI. In particular, understanding of the mechanisms ofplastic change in the human brain accompanied bylearning, sensory deafferentation, and development ofResearch
Departments
11social cognition is the main focus of our research
activities. Multimodality approach including EEG, MEG,
TMS, and NIR are considered when appropriate. To
explore the neural mechanism of real-time social
interaction, hyper-scanning fMRI (3T) and 7TMRI will beapplied.

Brain areas commonly activated by social and monetary rewards. Why are we nice to others? Oneanswer provided by social psychologists is because it pays oﬀ. A social psychological theory
stated that we do something nice to others for a good reputation or social approval just like wework for salary. Although this theory assumed that social reward of a good reputation has thesame reward value as money, it was unknown whether it recruits the same reward circuitry as
money in human brain. In this study, we found neural evidence that perceiving one’s good
reputation formed by others activated the striatum, the brain’s reward system, in a similar manner
to monetary reward. Considering a pivotal role played by a good reputation in social interactions,this study provides an important ﬁrst step toward neural explanation for our everyday social
behaviors.

SONG, Chihong

Project Assistant Professor
Section of Electron Microscopy①．What are you doing (researching) at NIPS?
My research is in the field of structural biology using electron
microscopy. The purpose of my research is to reveal the
relationship between structures and functions in biologicalmaterials at molecular and organelle levels. For this purpose,
I use several electron microscopes (Cryo-EM, High
voltage-EM and Serial block facing-SEM etc.), and develop
techniques of electron microscopy and image processing.
Structural information obtained by electron microscopy helps
to understand the mechanisms of physiological phenomena.
②．Why are you working at NIPS? (Why did you choose NIPS?)
I have been studying in Japan since I was a student. During
my graduate school years, I conducted collaborative

DEROUICHE Sandra
Project Assistant Professor
Division of Cell Signaling①．What are you doing (researching) at NIPS?
My research interest is on thermosensitive Transient
Receptor Potential (TRP) ion channels and how they regulate
physiological functions. I am currently investigating two
different topics related to temperature: how it can modulate
the sweat gland cells secretion as well as how it affects
microglial cells movement within the brain, through theactivity of TRP channels. For this purpose, I am using both invitro and in vivo approaches and combine multidisciplinary
techniques such as patch-clamp, calcium imaging,
immunostaining, two-photon imaging and mouse behavior
experiments.
②．Why are you working at NIPS? (Why did you choose NIPS?)
During my PhD in France, I was working on TRP channels’
involvement in prostate carcinogenesis. While writing myresearch with NIPS using an electron microscope. NIPS is
composed of the best experts with state-of-the-art
equipment. Recently, electron microscopy technology has
become more advanced and is becoming one of the mostimportant technology in the field of structural biology. I havealso chosen NIPS to gain expertise in this field of research. I
hope my research through NIPS will contribute to society.
③．
What are the good points about NIPS?
The NIPS has the best conditions for research. With
world-class professors, researchers, equipment, and skilled
technicians, NIPS is leading research around the world.
The NIPS is located in the same research complex as IMS,
and NIBB, making it easier to collaborate research. During
my four years at NIPS, I have been working with researchers
from IMS and NIBB, and it has broadened my views greatly.
NIPS also has the advantage of convenient transportation.
Because it was geographically convenient, located in thecentral Japan, it makes it possible to do joint research withinstitutions anywhere in the country.

defense manuscript I read many papers on the subject of
TRP channels and I found several high quality papers fromProf. Tominaga and his team. I was really attracted by theirresearch topics and methodologies, and this is how I cameto know about NIPS and its highly praised scientists andfacilities.
What are the good points about NIPS?
③．
NIPS is a great working environment for many reasons. It
offers the possibility to use cutting-edge equipment andtechnics in a peaceful setting. I also really appreciate theopenness of the different teams and their willingness tocollaborate between each other. If you come upon atheoretical or practical difficulty in your research project,
there is a great chance that someone in NIPS is familiar withthis field and can help you overcome this problem.
International collaborations are also encouraged and allows
you to broaden your knowledge and network. Finally, there isa friendly atmosphere in NIPS that makes everyone
comfortable and allows foreign researchers to enjoy theirstay here.

V O I C E －1

Researcher's Voice

12

Research Centers

01

Center for Collaborative Research
Director

Professor KUBO, Yoshihiro

The “Center for Collaborative Research” established in April 2016 plays critical roles in the promotion of various
collaborative research activities, including inter-university research, advanced bio-imaging support, supply andmanagement of monkeys for experiments, and domestic as well as international research collaborations. It consists of 5
sections of Collaboration Promotion, Advanced Research Support, National Bio-Resource (NBR) Project, Visiting
Collaborative Research Project and International Collaborative Research Project.

ResearchCenters(1) As a mission of the inter-university research institute, NIPS promotes and conducts collaborative researches. The“Collaboration Promotion” section is in charge of facilitation of joint researches utilizing the facilities of NIPS. It responds
to inquiries about available research facilities and laboratories suitable to achieve research aims, and also coordinates
the joint research. Thus, it serves as a sort of “concierge” of joint research with NIPS. (2) NIPS, in cooperation with
NIBB, started “Supporting Platform for Advanced Bio-Imaging” project supported by JSPS KAKENHI grant in April 2016.
In this framework, the “Advanced Research Support” section serves to promote support for advanced imaging
techniques using optical microscope, electron microscope and fMRI. Another activity of this section is to support “TheNext Generation Brain Research” Project. It is to organize a symposium of wide-ranged brain science researchers
including the ones belonging to MEXT priority research areas. (3) The “National Bio-Resource (NBR) Project” section
had been in charge of the activity of NIPS to supply monkeys for research experiments. In 2017, the primary responsible
role of NBR Project was transferred from NIPS to the Primate Research Center in Kyoto University. NIPS will continue tocooperatively contribute to the activity of NBR Project including the maintenance and management of monkeys. (4) The
aim of the “Visiting Collaborative Research Project” section is to facilitate collaborative researches with researchers
staying in NIPS using a sabbatical leave. (5) The “International Collaborative Research Project” section is a laboratory
run by a visiting professor from abroad who stays for a significantly long time in NIPS. From 2017, Professor Denis Le
Bihan (Former Director of NeuroSpin in France) is serving as a P.I.

Section ofAdvanced
Research Support

National Institute forPhysiological Sciences Provides
comprehensive support foryour research .

Section ofVisiting
Collaborative
Research Project

Section of
NBR Project

Physiologicalresearch
in JapanSection ofInternational
Collaborative
Research ProjectProf.
Denis Le Behan（NeuroSpin, France）

13

Section ofCollaboration
Promotion

02

Supportive Center for Brain Research
Director

Professor ISODA, Masaki

The Supportive Center for Brain Research consists of five sections (Sections of Brain Structure Information, Brain
Function Information, Multiphoton Neuroimaging, Electron Microscopy, and Instrumental Design) and provides their
specialized and large-scale equipment for use in collaborative studies. Here we introduce the activities of three sections.
(1) The Section of Brain Structure Information has carriedout three-dimensional structural analysis of biologicalsamples at nanometer scales through single particle
analysis, tomographic analysis, and crystal analysis using
the state-of-the-art electron microscopes (high-voltage
TEM, phase contrast cryoEM, and serial block-face SEM;
Figure 1). The major research targets are large protein
complexes, membrane proteins, viruses, bacteria, cellorganelles such as mitochondria, and synapses. We also
develop novel image processing procedures for structural
analyses.
Cdc42
BeforeAfter stimulation
Activity Low

High

Figure 2. Imaging biochemical reaction in a single synapse by 2-photon
ﬂuorescence lifetime imaging microscopy. The arrowhead indicates theactivation of Cdc42 after glutamate uncaging stimulation.

ResearchCenters(2) The section of Multiphoton Neuroimaging utilizes thestate-of-the-art two-photon fluorescence microscopes andtwo-photon fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopes forin-vivo imaging of the brain of living mice and the signaltransduction at synapses (Figure 2). By combining thesetechniques with optical manipulation techniques such as
an optogenetic approach, we aim to understandphysiological functions crucial for vital activity, such as themechanism of memory in the brain.

Figure 1.
Asymmetric bindingarchitectures of theactivation factors on 20S
proteasome revealed byelectron tomography andsingle particle analysis(Kumoi et al., PLOS ONE
8: e60294, 2013). Scalebar, 10 nm.

(3) The section of Brain Function Information aims toclarify the mapping between structure and function of thebrain by using high-field magnetic resonance imaging(MRI, 3T and 7T) in humans and nonhuman primates. We
actively promote collaborative studies ranging from basic
research on and development of MRIs to clinicalapplications. We aim at establishing standards for MRI
procedures, including safety protocols, novel applications,and quantitative analyses of MR images. We are now
trying to develop algorithms to mathematically andstatistically handle a vast amount of image data.
Figure 3. Functional MRI using 7 T machine. Somatotopic
representation of the left ﬁngers mapped onto the cortical surface ofBrain science is one of the hottest research fields
an individual with spatial resolution of 1×1×1 mm.
worldwide, and recent progress in this field is surprisingly
rapid. The NIPS is now widely recognized as a hub for brain science research in Japan, and most NIPS researchers areengaged in some way in the relevant field. Therefore, the mission of this center is not only to support intramural studies
at the NIPS, but also to play an active role in promoting fruitful collaborations in the neuroscience community in Japanand abroad through joint researches.

14

Research Centers

03

Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior
Director

Professor TOMINAGA, Makoto

Section of Mammalian Transgenesis
Services offered by Laboratory for Transgenesis include
generating transgenic rodents (mouse and r a t ) b y
pronuclear microinjection of foreign DNA and generatingknockout (KO)/knock-in (KI) rodents by new genome-editing
tools using zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), TAL effector
nucleases (TALENs) or the clustered regularly interspaced
short palindromic repeat/Cas9 (CRISPR/Cas9). In addition,embryonic stem (ES) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS)
cells established in rats can be utilized for researches inregenerative medicine. Production of cloned rats by somatic
cell nuclear transplantation is a challenging subject.

ResearchCenters

Section of Behavior Patterns
Since 99% of mouse genes have homologous in humans,a large-scale project that is aimed to encompass knockoutsof every gene in mice is in progress. Approximately 80% of
all genes are expressed in brain and, to investigate theirfunction in individual organisms, we should investigate theirfunctions in the brain. We can identify the genes that have asignificant impact on the brain functions efficiently byexamining the final output level of gene function in the brain,that is, behavior. The influence of a given gene on a specificbehavior can be determined by conducting the behavioral
analysis of mutant mice lacking that gene. The test
comprehensive behavioral battery covers sensori-motor
functions, emotion, learning and memory, attention and soon. So far, we obtained behavioral data from 75 strains. In
those mice strains, we found some models of psychiatricdisorders.

Fig.1.
A Rosa26-tdTomato KI rat oﬀspring derived from the gene-modiﬁed rat
ES cells.

Heat map showing behavioral phenotypes of genetically engineered
mice. Each column represents the strain of genetically-engineered
mice that has been analyzed. Each row represents a category of
behavior assessed by comprehensive behavior test battery. Colors
represent an increase (red) or decrease (green) in a comparison
between the wild-type and mutant strains.

Section of Metabolic Physiology
This section analyzes the in vivo neuronal and metabolic activity in mice and rats which were modified their related
genes and exposed with various environmental conditions. This section has been opened for the collaboratory use of
researchers all over Japan since April, 2011. This section examines the following subjects:
1）Single unit recording from motor related brain regions in awake state.
2）Regional neural activity detected as intrinsic signals with taking the advantage of light fluorescent dynamics of flavinor hemoglobin.
3）Energy intake and expenditure in free-moving animals.
4）Body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure in
free-moving animals.
5) Non-invasive echo-graphic imaging of tissue structurefunction relationships (liver, kidney and blood vessels),
4-dimensional changes in cardiac functions, and capillary
blood flow (brain and umbilical cord) using anesthetized
ARCO system: measurement ofwhole body energy metabolism
mice.
by mass spectrometorical6）Mouse temperature preference assay with thermal
analysis of respiratory gas
gradient ring.
exchange15

04

Center for Animal Resources and Collaborative Study
Director

Professor MINOKOSHI, Yasuhiko

Experimental animals are relevant to human health and contribute meaningfully to medical advances such asproviding better support for the life science research and the development of medical technology. To perform a highly
reproducible animal experiment, it is necessary to maintain high standards of experimental animals. In order to achieve
this aim, the experimental animal facilities have to control the uniformly breeding environment all year round, provide
husbandry to experimental animals in a clean state without pathogenic microbial contamination (specific pathogen-free:
SPF).
The Center for Animal Resources and Collaborative Study is one of the top-class experimental animal centers inJapan. The center was reorganized from the Center for Experimental Animals in FY2019 to further enhancecollaborative study based on animal research as a common facility of the interuniversity institutes. In the terrestrial andaquatic animal sections, multiple species including mouse, rat, marmoset, macaque, fish, and amphibians aremaintained and supplied for experimentation. The principal responsibilities of the center include (1) the appropriate
breeding of rodents and other experimental animals, (2) embryo transfer and cryopreservation for genetically modified
mouse lines, (3) development and refinement of diagnostic testing methods, microbial containment, and disease
prevention strategies, (4) provision of information related to the techniques of animal experimentation as well as
promotion of education and awareness with regard to ethical considerations and regulations related to the study ofexperimental animals, (5) enhancement and support of collaborative animal research involving domestic and foreign
researchers. The new building in “Myodaiji” area, which is equipped with the state-of-the art system and experimentalrooms for collaboration studies, will start operation in October, 2020. We are capable of supplying high quality animalcare and resources to reach the best research achievements in the world.
ResearchCenters

Aquatic animal section

Individually ventilated cage system

16Research Centers

05

Research Center for Computational Science

Research Center for Computational Science, it was established the computer center of IMS in 1977, primarily
provides an opportunity for large scale computation in molecular science which could not be carried out atregional university computer centers. Further, the Center is supporting experimental data collection and analysis,
developed and maintained the program library and database in molecular science, basic biology and physiologicalsciences.
Computer Cluster
Fujitsu PRIMERGY RX300S7
Speciﬁcatons: 126.9TFlops, 5472cores,
342nodes, 43.7TB memory

Computer Cluster
Fujitsu PRIMERGYCX2550M1
Speciﬁcatons: 302.8TFlops,
7280cores, 260nodes,
33.2TB memory

ResearchCenters

06

Center for Radioisotpe Facilities

The Center for Radioisotope Facilities promotes research works using radioisotopes for three institutes in the
Okazaki campus. The center educates researchers for their safe and efficient experiments and strictly controls theuse of radioisotopes to ensure the safe handling.
Radioisotope laboratory
Radioisotope experiments in thecontrolled area for research using
radioactive materials.

Monitoring system for thesafe use of radioisotopes

17

Exploratory Research Center on Lifeand Living Systems

What is life? The Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS) aims to achieve acomprehensive understanding of living systems beyond reductionism by utilizing large-scale data analyses andsynthetic biology approaches. For this purpose, ExCELLS develops novel approaches for observing biologicalentities, deciphering hidden information, and creating living systems to improve understanding of their nature.
Moreover, ExCELLS promotes collaborative, interdisciplinary research involving investigators who explore
organisms living in extreme environments and provides a unique platform for cross-disciplinary research in aninteruniversity, collaborative environment, using the “Observe, Read, and Create” approach. Furthermore, fordeveloping a strong research and innovation base, ExCELLS enlightens young people to become the next
generation scientists. To achieve our aims, we would like to expand our international collaborative network.
ExCELLS consists of Department of Creative Research and Section for Exploration of Life in Extreme
Environments.
Department of Creative Research develops novel approaches for “Observe, Read, and Create”, and aims toachieve a comprehensive understanding of living systems. Section for Exploration of Life in Extreme
Environments explores living systems in extreme environments to elucidate original modes of living andadaptation strategies of organisms.

“Observe”

To develop innovative methods for observing dynamic behaviors of biomolecules in situ and for visualizingchanges in quantities of various physical components in complex living systems“Read”

To develop theoretical and computational approaches to decode, interpret, and predict biological patterns fromvarying data

“Create”

To understand the design principles of dynamically ordering, and robust systems in varying environment by
creating experimental and computational living systems

Further Development ofInterdisciplinary Research Fields

Observe

Read

Exploration ofLife in Extreme
Environments

極限環境
生命探査

Create18

Joint usage facilities
The National Institute for Physiological Sciences (NIPS) as an inter-university joint usage
institute corporation is conducting diverse (general and planned) joint research projects and joint
usage experiments using various types of large-scale equipment through collaboration withresearchers belonging to universities throughout Japan and national or public research institutes.

Large facilities and equipments for cooperative studies
As a mission to be the inter-university research institute, NIPS conducts joint studies withresearchers from domestic or foreign universities and other research institutes. NIPS provides
specialized equipment, large-scale equipment, and research facilities, and develops new equipment
for morphological and functional 4D imagingｓ of various organs such as the brain.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging System（MRI : 3tesla,7tesla）

MRI is an imaging technique that utilizes the nuclear magnetic
resonance of the hydrogen atom. Not only to image the anatomical
details of the brain, but MRI also allows exploring the neuralsubstrates of human cognitive function by the visualization of thetask-related changes in regional cerebral blood flow（functional
MRI）. For over a decade, we have been working on 3T MRI to
investigate higher brain function of a human (The first 3T machine
installed in 2000 was shutdown in 2018). To simultaneously
measure the neural activities of two participants during their social
interaction, we have recently installed dual functional MRI system with two 3T MRI. Furthermore, ultra-high field(7T) MRI system has been installed. In 2016 and 2017, cooperative study projects using 7T machine were
performed for the purpose of technical assessment and development. As we have confirmed stable operation in
2018, it is being fully provided for cooperative studies.

Phase Contrast Electron Cryomicroscopy
Phase contrast electron cryomicroscopy is an electron microscope developed
for observing close-to-life state biological samples with a combination of rapid
freezing and ice embedding sample preparation methods. Biological specimens
up to 200 nm thicknesses can be observed with high-resolution and high-contrast.
Ultrastructure analyses of protein molecules, viruses, bacteria, cultured cells andfrozen tissue sections are performed with this novel microscopic system.

Serial Block-Face Scanning Electron Microscope（SBF-SEM）

Serial block-face scanning electron microscope（SBF-SEM）is an advanced
3-D nano-imaging equipment. Two different types of SBF-SEM are available;
high-resolution and wide-area types. Resin-embedded biological specimens are
sliced by a diamond knife equipped inside the chamber, and the block-faceimages are acquired by scanning electron microscopy（SEM）. 3-D structures ofthe specimens are finally reconstructed from the acquired serial block-faceimages. 3-D structures of large biological specimens like a brain tissue can bevisualized at the resolution of several nanometers.

19

Multiphoton excitation microscopy
Phase contrast electron cryomicroscopy is anelectron microscope developed for observing
close-to-life state biological samples with a
combination of rapid freezing and ice embedding
sample preparation methods. Biological specimens
up to 200 nm thicknesses can be observed withhigh-resolution and high-contrast. Ultrastructure
analyses of protein molecules, viruses, bacteria,
cultured cells and frozen tissue sections are
performed with this novel microscopic system.

Analytical equipment for in vivo neuronal, metabolicand physiological parameters in mice and rats
We analyze the following physiological parameters in mice and rats:
1）Single unit recording from motor-related brain regions in the awake state, 2）
Regional neural activity detected as intrinsic signals with taking the advantage oflight fluorescent dynamics of flavin or hemoglobin, 3）Energy intake andexpenditure in free-moving animals, 4）Body temperature, heart rate and bloodpressure in free-moving animals, 5）Non-invasive echo-graphic imaging of tissue
structure-function relationships (liver, kidney and blood vessels), 4-dimensionalchanges in cardiac functions, and capillary blood flow (brain and umbilical cord)using anesthetized mice, 6）Mouse temperature preference assay with thermal
gradient ring.

Magnetoencephalography（MEG）
Magnetoencephalography（MEG）has a potential to measure brain activities
with better temporal and spatial resolution in milliseconds and millimeter,
respectively, compared with other methods such as functional magnetic resonanceimaging. Event-related magnetic fields following various kinds of sensory
stimulation are mainly analyzed. Also, background brain activities（brain waves）invarious conditions can be analyzed.

20

Young Fostering
One of the missions of NIPS is fostering young researchers who could lead science ofJapan in the future.

What is SOKENDAI?
The Graduate University of Advanced Studies, SOKENDAI is a graduate school which educates students
in the institutes belonging to the Inter-University Research Institute Corporation where students are
exposed to the leading edge of science and become scientists having sophisticated expertise, a wide
perspective and an ability to explore the novel scientific research. NIPS is in charge of Department of
Physiological Sciences which forms School of Life Science with Departments of Basic Biology (National
Institute of Basic Biology) and Genetics (National Institute of Genetics).
A lot of researchers are working on brain and neuroscience in NIPS and NIPS is one of a few strong
education bases where students can learn a wide rage of brain science. Because brain science is reallyinterdisciplinary, students entering Department of Physiological Sciences have various backgrounds not
only of scientific research fields such as medicine, science, technology and agriculture but also of culturalsciences. In order to further enhance the interdisciplinary education of brain science, Department of
Physiological Sciences is carrying out a Brain Science Joint Program with other Departments related tobrain science research using a remote lecture system.
In addition, School of Life Science Retreat is held once a year with students and teachers belonging to
the three Departments in School of Life Science and Department of Evolutionary Studies of Biosystems inwhich people improve mutual understanding through oral and poster presentations.

Collaborative Researcher
In addition to the SOKENDAI students, graduate students from universities of all over the country are
working in NIPS.

Young Fostering & Career Paths
It is an important function for NIPS to foster prestigious
researchers in the field of physiological sciences and to supply
them to universities and research institutes all over the country,
and indeed, a lot of excellent researchers from NIPS are
successfully working inside and outside the country. In addition,
NIPS supports especially young researchers by providing original
research grants.

21

Misbah Rashid
Graduate Student

Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism①．What are you doing (researching) at NIPS?
I am trying to ameliorate the symptoms of obesity in high fat
diet induced obese mice by activating steroidogenic factor 1(SF1) expressing neurons in the ventromedial hypothalamus(VMH). SF1 neurons play a crucial role in energy metabolism
and feeding regulation. Therefore, I am interested to target
this population of neurons. By chemogenetic technology
DREADD, I activate SF1 neurons for long-term and check theeffects on body weight, food and energy metabolism.
②．Why did you choose SOKENDAI (NIPS)?
With my passion to help the humanity, I found NIPS as abest place to accomplish my dreams. Because it exactly
matches with my field of interest. I was interested in
exploring underlying mechanisms that may help to treat

Deveci Aykut
Graduate Student

Division of Cell Signaling①．What are you doing (researching) at NIPS?
My research topic is about molecular and cellular physiology
of ion channels. I am particularly interested by Transient
Receptor Potential Melastastin 2 (TRPM2), a
calcium-permeable, non-selective cation channel which
exhibits heat sensitivity. It acts as a biosensor of oxidativeand osmotic stresses under physiologic and pathologic
conditions. Moreover, it is also highly expressed in the brain,similarly to calcium-activated Potassium Channels (IKCa and
BKCa) which is one of my interest too. Consequently, my aim
is to find the relationship between these two types ofchannels in neuronal cells or microglial cells.
Futhermore, about 20-25% of brain volume is occupied byextracellular matrix (ECM). The composition and integrity ofthe brain’s ECM regulate tissue diffusion properties and areessential determinants of neural plasticity, e.g. via regulating
volume transmission of neuromodulators. This is why I would
also like to investigate if an enriched environment of ECM
can impact TRPM2-IKCa signaling pathway.

obesity and related metabolic problems like diabetes.
Fortunately, I found both my field of interest and opportunity
to do research with the world-class renowned professors
under one roof. The highly supportive environment andserenity of the place made it more attractive to me.
What are the good points about NIPS?
③．
This reputed institute provides very professional, beneficial,friendly and supportive atmosphere. Faculty members arereally kind, patient and expert in their areas of research.
NIPS give you freedom to formulate your research question.
This institute also offers the opportunity to travelinternationally to collaborate and expand the knowledge
with foreign research institutes. Moreover, counselling isprovided on individual basis to students to take care of
their mental health, living issues and problems related toresearch and studies. NIPS provides cheap and fully
furnished lodging facility for the foreigner researchers. I
found NIPS as a leading platform that nourishing thescientific society by making the superlative scientists inevery field of science.

②．
Why did you choose SOKENDAI ( NIPS ) ?
The main reason why I am a student of National Institute forPhysiological Sciences (NIPS) is due to my research field
which is focused on Ion Channels. There are world-classresearch teams in NIPS that can help me during my PhD andgive me suggestions for the progress of my project. I was
accepted in the lab of Prof. Tominaga, who is a world
famous professor working on ion channels. And I believe that
his lab is the best place for my young scientist life in order toacquire new knowledge, skills and experiences.
③．What are the good points about NIPS?
First of all, NIPS is located in Okazaki which is a really niceplace, where everyone can live in peace and calm. It is also
really well organized. Staff members, labs, both scientificstaff and technical departments are professional.
Secondly, NIPS has cutting-edge equipment and devices inorder to perform several experiments in diverse fields ofresearch. There are also many opportunities for collaboration
inside NIPS labs or internationally. This allows to develop
new ideas.
And finally NIPS offers many job opportunities after the PhD
program. This helps the young scientists to enter in the
researcher life more easily.

V O I C E －2

Student's Voice

22

Research communities
The NIPS also functions as a base for research communities. It is currently developing systems
to provide researchers throughout Japan and the general public with information more actively.

Japan-U.S Brain Research Cooperative Program
Japan-U.S. Science and Technology Cooperation Program has been implemented since 1979 under the treaty
concluded between the governments of two countries, of which "Brain Research" Division was commenced in theyear 2000. National Institute for Physiological Sciences from Japanese side and National Institute of Neurological
Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), a sub-organ of NIH, from the U.S. support the cooperative projects of researchersof both countries as the responsible agency. The activities are classified into 1) Researchers dispatched to theUS, 2) Group joint study project, and 3) Information exchange seminars. The recruitment is made by publicly
announcing through the home page and academic journals.

National BioResource Project “Japanese Macaques”
National BioResource Project (NBRP) “Japanese Macaques” aims at establishing a system to collect, maintain,
and supply Japanese macaque monkeys (macaca fuscata) as essential bioresource for life science researches on
the national scale. Macaca fuscata has high cognitive abilities and is an essential animal model for higher brain
function studies in Japan. NIPS promotes NBRP “Japanese Macaques” with Primate Research Institute, Kyoto
University, the headquarter.

23

International research collaboration
The NIPS has reached agreements for academic exchange with NeuroSpin (France), Tubingen University,
Center for Integrative Neuroscience (Germany), McGill University (Canada), University of New South Wales
Sydney (Australia), Chulalongkorn University, Faculty for Pharmaceutical Sciences (Thailand), Korea University,
College of Medicine & College of Dentistry (Korea) and Yonsei University, College of Medicine (Korea). It
organizes joint symposium and performs collaborative research including exchange of researchers.
In 2014, the NIPS established “Section of International Collaborative Research Project” in “Center for Research
Collaboration”. It invites a distinguished foreign adjunctprofessor to run the section as a P.I. Dr. Le Bihan, a former
director of Neurospin, is currently running the lab topromote research on human brain imaging using the 11.7
Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging instrument.
The NIPS also promotes collaborative research withmany other oversea institutions and universities. It also
welcomes internship students and accepts graduate
students from Asian and other countries.

Joint workshop of NIPS and McGill University (Nov, 2019; Montreal, Canada)

Study seminars
The NIPS organizes more than 20 study seminars annually for researchers belonging to universities
throughout Japan to participate in discussions on important topics. Up to the present, a total of approximately
1,000 researchers have participated in such events. Unlike academic meetings, these seminars enable
researchers to thoroughly discuss important research topics in relatively small groups within sufficient timeframes, consequently contributing to the development of new research areas and formation of new researchgroups.

NIPS international symposium and NIPS international workshop
We organize NIPS international symposium and workshop every year inviting cutting-edge researchers fromabroad. Okazaki Conference Center and accommodation facilities support institutional activities.

24

Public relations activities
One of the missions of National Institute for Physiological Sciences is to disclose and return research
results to the public. In cooperation with the Okazaki City Board of Education and the Health Center,
MEXT(the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology), the Japan Science andTechnology Agency, the Brain Century Promotion Conference, and The Physiological Society of Japan, weare engaged in a wide range of public relations activities including visiting lectures and lectures for citizens.
We also have Public Open Day every 3 years.

Development of science teaching materials
We are developing a variety of scientific learning materials to enjoy learning how the bodyworks. In particular, we are focusing on the development of digital educational materials using
smartphones and tablets.
［Brain Responder］
An application that can measure the response time to visual, auditory, and tactile stimuli.

［Brain KARUTA］
It is an application software that uses AR (Augmented Reality) to show which brain is which animal’s byholding a tablet camera over pictures of various mammalian brains. You can also hear the voices of animals.

［KARADA Scope］
It is another AR application software that you can feel like observing your digestive organs, brain, bones, etc. by seeing yourbody through the tablet camera.

Common Facilities in Okazaki
Okazaki Conference Center

Okazaki Conference Center was founded on
February,1996 to promote international and domestic
conferenceprogram of research and education.
● Ohsumi Conference Hall
（capacity of 208）
● Conferece Room A（capacity of 112）

Ohsumi Conference Hall

● Conferece Room B（2 rooms, capacity of 50 each）

Accommodation

The lodging houses（Mishima Lodge and Myodaiji Lodge）are provided forguests, both foreign and domestic, for the common use of the three Institutes（NIPS, NIBB and IMS）.
The lodging
capacities are as
follows :Single RoomTwin Room

Family RoomMishima Lodge

60

14

12

Myodaiji Lodge

14

－

3

Myodaiji Lodge

The Sakura Nursery School

The Sakura nursery school is the institutional child care facility established forsupporting both research and child-rearing.
The school accept a child from the 57th day of after the birth, and is supportinga researcher's smooth return to research activity.
● Age : From the 57th day of after the birth to 3 years old● Capacity : 18 persons● Use candidate : The officers, reserchers, visiting researchers, graduate students at Okazaki three institutes● Opening day : From Monday to Friday● Opening time : From 8:00 to 19:00（maximum extension 20:00）● Childcare form : Regular childcare, temporary child care25

Location of Institute（http://www.nips.ac.jp/eng/profile/access.html）
SapporoMeitetsu line

Higashi-Okazaki

NagoyaJingumae

JR West line
Osaka
(Kansai)

Kyoto

NagoyaShinkansen

JR East line

Mikawa-Anjo

Toyohashi

Tokyo

MoriokaTokyo(Narita)

SendaiCentral Japan lnternational Airport (Centrair. NGO)

NagoyaOsaka

From Central Japan International Airport
By trainTake the Meitetsu train from Central Japan International Airport to
Higashi Okazaki Station. NIPS is a 7-minute walk up the hill on
the south side of the station.

FukuokaTokyo

Toyohashi

Higashi-Okazaki

Maibara

Osaka

Nakatsugawa

From New Tokyo International Airport (Narita Airport)

Komaki I.C.

A) By plane (*Recommended)
Transfer to Central Japan International Airport

Komaki JCT

B) By train
Take the JR Narita Express airport shuttle train from Narita toTokyo Station (approximately 60 minutes) and change trains to
the Tokaido shinkansen (bullet train).
At Toyohashi JR Station (approximately 2.5 hours from Tokyo),change trains to the Meitetsu Line's Limited Express train boundfor Gifu. Get off at Higashi Okazaki Station (approximately 20
minutes from Toyohashi). Turn left (south) at the ticket gate andexit the station. NIPS is a 7-minute walk up the hill.

Jingumae

Nagoya I.C.
Toyota-higashi JCT

NagoyaToyota JCT
YokaichiOkazaki I.C.
Okazaki-higashi
I.C.

Higashi-Okazaki

Shinshiro
I.C.

Mikawa-Anjo

Central Japanlnternational Airport(Centrair. NGO)

1

Toyohashi

Shinkansen
Tokyo

Route No.1

Sakurano
shirobashi
BridgeMyodaibashi
BridgeSouth Exit

From the south exit of Higashi-Okazaki station.
About 7 min. on foot.

OtogawaRiver

Yamate Area

M
ei

From the south exit of Higashi-Okazaki station.
・By taxi : About 7 min.
・By bus : Take Tatsumigaoka-jyunkan, which departs from No11bus station, and get off at Tatsumi-kita-1chome (about6min), and walk to the east for about 3min..
・On foot : About 20 min.

te

Rokusho
Shrinets

NIBB

Myodaiji Area

Fukiyabashi
BridgeNorth Exit

Higashi Okazaki
StationuLi
neMain Entrance

Myodaiji Area
IMS

National Institute forPhysiological Sciences

Mishima Lodge
Okazaki
ConferenceCenterOkazaki

Myodaiji High
Lodge School

N

Tomei Exp
Hamamatsu

National Institute forPhysiological Sciences

Tonobashi
BridgeShinTomei Exp

MishimaElementary
School●Yamate Area
NIPS
NIBB
IMS

National Institu

te for Physiological Sciences

Official character「NOU-kun」

Hello!

★date of birth：May 1, 2014
★gender：boy★dream：tobe★favorite thing

the world be

st well-inform：cheering fo★favorite food：r everyone

Hatcho miso,

ed researcher

karinto-manjyu

26

NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

National Institutes of Natural Sciences

Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8585, Japan
Phone :＋81-564-55-7700 Fax :＋81-564-52-7913

http://www.nips.ac.jp/

2020.06