Welcome to the Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology at Nagasaki University, where our research focuses on human prion diseases, fatal neurodegenerative disorders caused by an infectious protein known as prion. Although the pathology was first identified a century ago, by Professor Hans Gerhard Creutzfeldt in Germany, much about it still remains unknown even today. The prion hypothesis, propounded in 1982 by Professor Stanley B. Pruisner of UCSF, proposes that the abnormal form of prion protein arises through conformational changes in normal prion protein, resulting in its conversion into an infectious form. The aim of our department is to unravel the mysteries surrounding prion diseases and further elucidate the mechanism of transmission. To date, there is still no approved treatment available for this group of deadly diseases.

Our research is focused on shedding light on the cause of sporadic human prion diseases and identifying the authentic infectious agents responsible for these devastating disorders. Through our cutting-edge research and innovative diagnostic techniques, we strive to make significant contributions to the field of prion diseases, improve patient care, and ultimately find ways to halt the progression of these fatal conditions.