Institute of Microbial Chemistry (IMC) is dedicated to enhancing human health by the discovery and development of new therapeutic molecules. It conducts research in biology and chemistry investigating effective compounds relevant to the improvement of human welfare. In the light of increasing drug-resistant viruses and organisms, particularly in life-threatening pathogens, it has become imperative to identify new biologically active chemical entities. This search requires an interdisciplinary approach. This institute benefits from the close partnership between Biology and Chemistry Divisions, which provides a unique complementary platform for drug discovery.
Based on the ideology that high quality basic research holds the key to the discovery of new therapeutic molecules, the Biology Division is dedicated to advancements in the field of microbiology and medical science. This division has a mission of understanding the fundamental mechanism of life and disease development, with the aim of translating academic research into therapeutic assets. Our objectives include constructing new screening systems to study the metabolites of microbial origin as possible candidate molecules. Furthermore, crossing academic boundaries, the strong collaboration with the Chemistry Division enables efficient design and modification of these candidate molecules. With the efforts of the outstanding scientists working in multidisciplinary research areas, this institute is committed to fundamental research and strives to extend the application of scientific knowledge to improve the quality of human life.

Akio Nomoto
Director of Biology Division
Institute of Microbial Chemistry

IMC was established with the aim of focusing intense expertise on the comprehensive investigation of microorganisms and their secondary metabolites.

Our central objective is to identify and develop novel biologically active and therapeutically relevant substances that originate from microorganisms. The strong stewardship and commitment of our scientists has contributed to the global advancement of basic science and human health through comprehensive and collaborative research.

The unique cross-disciplinary culture of biology and chemistry is a particularly valuable feature of IMC. By harnessing our world-class expertise on microorganisms, the Biology Division leads projects to determine the molecular basis of the pathogenesis and production of biologically active metabolites. These investigations are coupled closely and reinforced with the Chemistry Division, which provides cutting-edge technologies to produce the required chemical entities through state-of-the-art asymmetric catalysis and organic synthesis. IMC is empowered by collaborative research across scientific disciplines and is committed to the development of novel therapeutics, agrichemicals, and specific antipollution chemicals to enhance the future of human society.

Masakatsu Shibasaki
Director of Chemistry Division
Institute of Microbial Chemistry