Faculty & Researchers
Course (Campus)：Division of Developmental Neuroscience (The University of Osaka)
■ Research field: Pediatric Developmental Neurology
Instructor : Prof. Kuriko SHIMONO, Lecturer. Yoshiko IWATANI, Specially Appointed Assistant Professor. Kohei KURITA
The development of a child’s mind is shaped by the complex interaction of innate, genetically programmed foundations and acquired factors, such as individual genetic predispositions, the formation of attachments with caregivers, socioeconomic environment, and illness. For example, it is known that survivors of extremely low birth weight premature births have a high incidence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities, and that children who have experienced severe emotional deprivation exhibit symptoms similar to developmental disorders. Therefore, it is impossible to consider psychological issues in isolation from a child’s physical condition and environment. Furthermore, even among children diagnosed with developmental disorders, each child has distinct characteristics—such as those with high levels of aggression, those who understand but are nonverbal, or those with markedly prominent hyperactivity. Rather than adopting a categorical approach, we examine each child’s characteristics within dimensions corresponding to brain functions such as executive function, cognitive function, and sensory processing. We conduct research to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms, develop objective diagnostic methods, and advance treatment approaches. In our field, while prioritizing clinical practice, we aim to: (1) understand the psychological development of individual children and their disabilities from a neuroscientific perspective using brain imaging and cognitive function tests; and (2) investigate how environmental factors influence child development. We also seek to identify objective markers, such as EEG and autonomic nervous system activity, that reflect changes in physiological responses due to individual characteristics and external stressors.
■ Research field: Psychological Support for Child Development
Instructor : Assoc. Prof. Tomoko NISHIMURA, Assis. Prof. Tomoka YAMAMOTO, Assis. Prof. Arika YOSHIZAKI
In recent years, growing attention to children’s mental health issues and neurodevelopmental disorders has heightened the need for support for children with developmental challenges, as well as for their caregivers and families. In practice settings, there is an urgent need not only to understand children’s socio-emotional development and parent–child interactions, but also to acquire practical skills for supporting children with neurodevelopmental conditions and those who are difficult to manage, along with their caregivers. Moreover, recent perspectives emphasize the importance of providing support tailored not only to children’s characteristics but also to the circumstances of their caregivers. This shift calls for a reconsideration of approaches that extend beyond the child to include caregivers and the broader family context. In addition, support within educational settings such as preschools and schools—key environments surrounding the family—is increasingly recognized as essential. There is also a growing need to examine how to support practitioners themselves, who face complex challenges on a daily basis, including school refusal and other difficult-to-address issues. Our aim is to investigate adaptive difficulties in children and parent–child relationships by developing and evaluating interventions for parenting-related challenges, including those associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., Social Skills Training [SST]), as well as by examining methods for assessing parent–child interactions. Through these efforts, the field seeks to identify effective forms of support and the factors that determine their effectiveness. Furthermore, through collaboration with education, welfare, and administrative sectors, we aim not only to enhance support for children but also to explore effective approaches to supporting practitioners, from both practical and theoretical perspectives.
■ Research field: Molecular Brain Science
Instructor : Prof. Taiichi KATAYAMA, Assoc. Prof. (Lecturer) Yuichiro OKA, Assis. Prof. Ko MIYOSHI, Assis. Prof. Yuuki FUJIWARA, Assis. Prof. Hideki HAYAKAWA , Specially Appointed Prof. Seiichi NAGANO, Guest Prof. Shigeo MURAYAMA
(Katayama Lab) In current genetic research, vulnerability factors related to the risk of mental disease have been frequently reported, as is the case with other organic diseases.
Our current research focuses on vulnerability genes for major childhood and adolescent mental diseases, including developmental disorders, childhood schizophrenia, and childhood mood disorders. The role of these vulnerability factors and their influence on the development of the brain and mind will be investigated using anatomical, biochemical, and molecular biological methods to elucidate the mechanisms underlying brain development, developmental disorders, and childhood and adolescent psychological diseases at the molecular level. Through such research, we can develop a scientific understanding of the development of the brain and mind, enabling the identification of preventive measures as well as providing countermeasures for various emotional problems including developmental disorders in children.
(Oka Lab) How does the brain work? Researchers have been struggling with this simple but profound question for a century. Because of its extreme complexity (there are approximately 86 billion neurons in the human brain!), it is crucial to sculpt essential neural circuits as well as revealing their key operating principles. Since brain architecture, including neural circuits, is highly organized, one way to address this question is to investigate the “tabula rasa” state of early brain function, and to explore brain development processes in depth. We are currently studying how the brain, particularly the neocortex, develops at both the cellular and molecular levels.
■ Research field：Environmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
Instructor : Prof. Ikuko MOHRI、 Prof. Masaya TACHIBANA、 Assis. Prof. Ikuko HIRATA
In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These children often comorbid sleep problems. We have reported that improving sleep problems can promote behavioral and developmental progress. Sleep is a physiological mechanism necessary for maintaining normal physical and brain function. Recent studies have reported that synaptic pruning and strengthening occur during sleep. In humans, the number of synapses increases from just before birth, peaks during infancy, and then decreases through pruning, reaching adult levels around the age of five. Since it has been suggested that insufficient synaptic pruning is a fundamental characteristic of autism, we believe that synaptic pruning during sleep in early childhood is critically important for development, and we are conducting sleep promotion activities for infants. We are analyzing the vast amount of data obtained through these efforts to determine what kind of sleep is necessary to further promote development. Additionally, while we see many patients with neurodevelopmental disorders in our developmental and sleep clinics, we have observed an increase in the number of children who refuse to attend school in recent years. Many of these children exhibit hypersomnia. We aim to elucidate the changes in physiological indicators during hypersomnia and to clarify the mechanisms underlying this condition. Furthermore, we have reported that prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) acts not only as a sleep inducer but also as a potent inflammatory mediator that exacerbates neuroinflammation. It has been reported that neuroinflammation occurs in the brains of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. We are investigating how PGD2-mediated neuroinflammation affects neurodevelopment.
■ Research field：Functional Genomics & Bioinformatics
Instructor : Prof. Ryo KIMURA
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders are associated with a growing need for timely diagnosis and appropriate support. However, objective biomarkers remain insufficiently established, and diagnosis and treatment still rely primarily on clinical interviews. Recent advances in sequencing technologies have accelerated the identification of disease-associated genes, and efforts to use such genetic information to support diagnosis and advance pathophysiological understanding are progressing worldwide. In this context, our research group conducts interdisciplinary studies spanning basic science, clinical research, and translation into practice through three main approaches: (1) multi-omics analyses using clinical specimens, (2) functional studies at the molecular and cellular levels using zebrafish, and (3) survey-based research involving university students and families of patients. In particular, we conduct integrated research on Williams syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by high sociability in contrast to ASD, in collaboration with researchers and patient families both in Japan and abroad. By elucidating the factors that underlie its phenotype, we aim to clarify disease mechanisms and contribute to improved treatment and support.
■ Research field：Developmental Neuroresilience Science
Instructor : Assoc.Prof. Takashi YAMADA
In our research group, we investigate how the developing brain in childhood and adolescence adapts to stress and adversity through learning and experience, thereby building psychological resilience. Our goal is to understand the dynamic changes that characterize the developing brain and to apply this knowledge to future approaches for mental health and developmental support.
Our research is based on a large-scale online cohort of children and adolescents aged 0 to 18 years. Using questionnaire-based assessments and genetic analyses, we explore protective factors that support children’s mental health. We further combine advanced methodologies, including structural and functional MRI and sleep EEG, to clarify how these factors operate in the brain. In addition to typical development, we also focus on neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with the aim of elucidating both shared mechanisms underlying diverse developmental trajectories and the features specific to each condition. Furthermore, using experimental paradigms such as perceptual learning, we examine the distinctive characteristics of neuroplasticity in childhood through an integrated approach that combines psychophysics, MRI, and sleep EEG. We welcome students who are interested in child development, neuroscience, mental health, and the understanding and support of neurodevelopmental conditions.
Course (Campus)：Division of Socio-Cognitive Neuroscience (Kanazawa University)
■ Research field：Social Cognitive Bioscience
Instructor : Assoc. Prof. Kyota FUJITA、 Assis. Prof. Chiharu TSUJI
Developmental disorders affecting learning, social functioning and behavior are major health issues in contemporary societies. We regard these disorders as brain dysfunctions, investigating their underlying mechanisms and providing education about healthy brain development and examining policy- and therapy-based approaches to overcoming dysfunction. As a strategy for producing effective research results, we are conducting comprehensive research screening to identify nerve development-related genes in drosophila using RNA interference (RNAi) technology which is one of the most significant biological discoveries of the past several years. The discovered genes, which are highly homologous to human genes, are next studied in mammalian model animals, such as mice, to determine their molecular function in mammals. Findings from these animal model studies are finally applied to human studies using blood or postmortem brain samples. We are conducting research to identify genes associated with developmental disorders and specify biological molecules to improve learning, social functioning and behavior.
We are preparing genetically manipulated mice enabling us to modify the genes associated with developmental disorders affecting learning, social functioning and behavior, and observe behaviors related to affection in mice. The relationships between genes and abnormal affection-related behaviors are being investigated. We are developing a new in vivo brain functional imaging probe for the visualization of neurochemical and neuropathological changes in patients with autism. Using in vivo radioactive molecular imaging technology, we are developing not only an early method for diagnosis of autism, but are also elucidating the molecular mechanisms operating in the nervous systems of patients with autism.
Finally, we are using these technologies, including gene manipulation and molecular imaging technology, for the development of therapeutic drug treatments for autism.
■ Research field：Human Communication Science & Intervention
Instructor : Prof. Hiroaki KOBAYASHI、 Prof. Yukiko ARAKI、 Prof. Yuko YOSHIMURA、 Assis. Prof. Sanae TANAKA
Parent-child communication, teacher-student communication, and communication among peers involves the capacity to understand others’ minds, world knowledge, language systems, cognition, and affect, among other abilities. These forms of communication provide important opportunities for children to learn how to communicate, as well as to understand socio-cultural conventions and the meaning of social events, and to build skills to develop robust mutual understanding and cooperation with others. Children with developmental disorders often have difficulty in one or more of the communication-related abilities described above, increasing the likelihood of failure in social learning in the family, school, and community. Such difficulties can disturb social adaptation and personality development. We aim to clarify how communication failures occur in these children and develop interventions to ameliorate these impairments.
■ Research field：Higher Brain Functions & Autism Research
Instructor : Assoc. Prof. Takashi IKEDA、 Assis. Prof. Chiaki HASEGAWA、 Assis. Prof. Eiichi OKUMURA
We are able to live our daily lives through the successful coordination of each brain function, including perception, language, body movement, attention, memory, and emotion. The developmental trajectories of these brain functions need to be clarified, as our understanding is limited to fragments and analogies from findings with adults due to technical difficulties. In this research area, we aim to elucidate the characteristics of the brain during typical developmental processes and the mechanisms of developmental disorders by combining research methods such as magnetoencephalography (MEG), electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), eye movement and heart rate monitoring with behavioral observation and questionnaires. We will also develop new data acquisition and analysis methods that go beyond existing measurement techniques.
■ Research field：Coordination Movement Science
Instructor : Assoc. Prof. Shin-ichi HORIKE
Developmental coordination disorder (DCD) is characterized by impaired motor skills including prominent clumsiness, awkward crawling and unbalanced locomotion. Importantly, DCD is frequently comorbid with other developmental disorders including autism, spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disability. This program aims at a comprehensive understanding of motor and postural control through studying anatomical, physiological and genetic aspects of neuroscience. Furthermore, we attempt to elucidate the pathophysiology of DCD by multidisciplinary approach using biochemical, cell biological, genetic and behavioral techniques.
■ Research field：Socioneuroscience
Instructor : Prof. Mitsuru KIKUCHI、 Prof. Hidenobu OHTA
We aim to foster individuals capable of undertaking interdisciplinary and cutting-edge research that integratively elucidates interpersonal interaction and developmental processes, including children’s sleep–wake rhythms, through the combined perspectives of neuroscience—using neuroimaging, behavioral measurements, and animal models—and the humanities and social sciences, including psychology and sociology. In this field, we investigate the relationships between the biological and social factors underlying neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder; the ways in which neurodevelopmental disorders interact with society through individual differences in brain function; and, in addition to the effects of pharmacological agents on the brain and issues related to cognitive enhancement, the impact of light environments and sleep habits on children’s brain and cognitive development, the mechanisms of sleep and cognitive development in at-risk children, including preterm infants, and the formation of early brain function through animal experiments. We further pursue both the continuity and the distinctions between the mature brain and the developing brain, and advance research in close collaboration with the fields of social cognitive biology, communication support studies, and higher brain function studies.
Course (Campus)：Division of Neuropsychological Development and Health Sciences
（Hamamatsu University School of Medicine）
■ Research field：Neuroimaging
Instructor : Prof. Yasuomi OUCHI、 Prof. Hidenori YAMASUE、 Assoc. Prof. (Lecturer). Masatoshi YAMASHITA、 Assoc. Prof. Masaki KOJIMA、 Assis. Prof. Taeko HARADA、 Assis. Prof. Masamichi YOKOKURA、 Assis. Prof. Hirotoshi HIRAISHI、 Visiting Assoc. Prof. Keisuke WAKUSAWA、 Visiting Assoc. Prof. Toshiki IWABUCHI
In vivo neuroimaging techniques, e.g., functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and positron emission tomography (PET), allow us to objectively and non-invasively investigate morphology and function of the brain. These techniques are now pervasively used for clinical diagnosis and assessment of therapeutic effects. In Neuroimaging, students will learn basic knowledge of neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, and how to collect, analyze, and interpret neuroimaging data. Then, they will also learn the utility of various neuroimaging techniques for studying neurodevelopmental disorders and children’s mental development.
■ Research field：Social Services for Developmental Disabilities
Instructor : Prof. Atsushi SENJU、 Prof. Shu TAKAGAI、 Prof. Takafumi SHIMADA、 Assis. Prof. Sayaka KAWAK、 Assis. Prof. Momoka SUDA、 Assis. Prof. Yuko IBARA、 Assis. Prof. Mayuko IRIGUCHI、 Assis. Prof. Ryuko MIZUTANI、 Visiting Professor Nagahide TAKAHASHI
People involved in providing social services to individuals who need a range of support for developmental problems should know in advance the structure of how the social services are organized. In particular, knowledge regarding human development, developmental problems, and developmental disabilities is critical. Furthermore, the basis of proper support, management of individual services, and social services in social contexts should also be thoroughly understood. Faculty members and students will be involved in the knowledge-base of a range of issues related to social services, and are asked to deliver relevant services to individuals in need.
■ Research field：Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Instructor : Prof. Kenji J. TSUCHIYA、 Assis. Prof. Abir NAGATA、 Assis. Prof. Akemi OKUMURA、 Assis. Prof. Yuuka OMORI
In research on human development and behavior, it is important to have a variety of measures for accurately understanding phenomena. Without suitable measures, objective measurement, appropriate sampling, and logical interpretation of the data would not be possible. This understanding can be achieved by learning about epidemiology and biostatistics. Specific topics covered in the Epidemiology and Biostatistics course include research design, data interpretation, and statistical analysis methods.
Course (Campus)：Division of Cognitive Behavioral Science（Chiba University）
■ Research field：Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Instructor : Prof. Fumiyo OSHIMA、 Assis Prof. Siqing GUAN
This course will primarily focus on learning cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and care methods for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In addition, it will cover CBT approaches for other developmental disorders, as well as secondary conditions such as anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and eating disorders.
Beyond CBT, the course will also examine the types of discrimination individuals with autism may face, the psychosocial stress they experience, and consider ethical and humane approaches to supporting them.
■ Research field：Mental Health Support & Intervention
Instructor : Prof. Eiji SHIMIZU、 Prof. Toshiyuki OHTANI、 Prof.Hiromichi HAMADA、 Prof. Hisashi HANAZAWA、 Assoc. Prof. （Lecturer） Noriko NUMATA, Assis Prof Yoichi SEKI
Advanced Course for Mental Health Support
To develop effective psychosocial support for children and adolescents, we have conducted clinical trials based on cognitive behavior therapy from the viewpoint of early interventions for mental health problems including anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, eating disorder and developmental disorders. Students will collect and review previous research with critical appraisal, as well as designing, organizing and conducting research projects.
■ Research field：Cognitive Behavioral Brain Science
Instructor : Prof. Yoshiyuki HIRANO、 Visiting Prof. Takayuki OBATA、 Visiting Prof. Daisuke MATSUZAWA、 Visiting Prof. Naoko SUGIYAMA、 Assoc. Prof. Yoshikazu NODA、 Assoc. Prof. Tsuyoshi SASAKI、Asst. Prof. Ritu Bhusal CHHATKULI、 Asst. Prof. Tokiko YOSHIDA、 Asst. Prof. Masaru KUNOU、 Asst. Prof. Junko OTA、 Asst. Prof. Naoko KATO、 Asst. Prof. Yuko ISOBE、Asst. Prof. Aiko ETO
We conduct research using non-invasive brain imaging such as MRI, biosamples, neuropsychological tests, and questionnaires to understand pathophysiology and treatment mechanisms in psychiatric disorders such as anxiety disorders (social anxiety disorder, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, etc.), depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, eating disorders (anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa), autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, etc.
Course (Campus)：Division of Developmental Higher Brain Functions (University of Fukui)
■ Research field：Developmental Emotional Intelligence
Instructor : Prof. Yoshifumi MIZUNO、 Assis. Prof. Sayo HAMATANI、 Assis. Prof. Qiulu SHOU
Our research area primarily uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the structure and function of the human brain, with the goal of elucidating the neurobiological basis of neurodevelopmental disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as developing clinically relevant biomarkers. Building on these findings, we also conduct research aimed at developing novel therapeutic and support approaches and evaluating their effectiveness, thereby integrating basic research with clinical application.
Research in this area is characterized by a multimodal approach that centers on structural and functional MRI while integrating diverse types of data, including genetic information, neurotransmitter-related indices, cognitive assessments, eye-tracking measures, and various psychological questionnaires. Through this approach, we seek to advance individualized understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and to construct more refined models of their underlying mechanisms. In addition, our research environment includes access to large-scale databases and open datasets, enabling highly reproducible and reliable research.
To carry out this research, expertise beyond a single discipline is required, spanning child development, psychiatry, radiology, psychology, neuroscience, informatics, and education. Accordingly, this research area actively promotes interdisciplinary collaboration with researchers both within and outside the University of Fukui, as well as with domestic and international research institutions. Research topics are broad and include not only the investigation of neurobiological mechanisms using brain imaging, but also the prediction of treatment response, the elucidation of developmental trajectories, and the evaluation of therapeutic and support interventions.
Graduate students in this research area can develop practical research skills in neuroimaging analysis, statistics and data science, as well as psychological and clinical assessment, while pursuing research topics aligned with their own academic interests. Depending on their background and interests, students may engage in research ranging from basic science to clinical application and social implementation, and may also gain international research experience through collaborative projects with domestic and overseas institutions.
■ Research field：Psychosocial Support for Nurturing
Instructor : Prof. Yoshifumi MIZUNO、 Assos. Prof. Takashi FUJISAWA、 Assis. Prof. Sawa KURATA
In recent years, the topic of neurodevelopmental disorders and child maltreatment as an issue facing Japanese society has gained considerable attention with regard to the field of medicine and educations and also in scenarios that relate to childcare. Recent studies reveal that maltreatment during childhood can cause abnormal brain development and have a negative impact later in life. We will introduce the mechanisms of maltreatment-related brain damage or adaptation with consideration of how and when child maltreatment or ICT can have impact on the brain development. Achievement will be evaluated according to the following criteria. 1) Proposal of appropriate research projects on the basis of understanding the background on the latest molecular biogenetic research. 2) Understanding how to investigate human brain development and psychomotor development. 3) Logical/proper experimental design that identifies degradation in cortical development induced by emotional stress and trauma. 4) Novel findings obtained by analytical approaches that can contribute to a better understanding of the selected research theme.
■ Research field：Development of Functional Brain Activities
Instructor : Prof. Hideo MATSUZAKI、 Prof. Aiko HIROSAWA(※)、 Prof. Toshiyuki KISHI(※)、 Assoc. Prof. Masafumi OHNISH(※)、 Assoc. Prof. Toru FUJIOKA、 Assis. Prof. Min-Jue XIE、 Assis. Prof. Hiroshi KUNIISHI ※ Master’s program only
【Master’s Program】
We have been actively involved on research aimed at understanding the development of social brain functions at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels.
In addition, empirical research related to experiences of violence and inappropriate parenting, development of child support programs, and research on cognitive functions in children with neurodevelopmental disorders will be pursued. This course will present fundamental principles of social neuroscience focusing on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) via understanding of molecular and behavioral mechanism in brain development. In this course, students can learn the followings,
(1) Exploratory research on therapeutic targets applicable to ASD medicine (Based on blood samples and brain imaging findings obtained from ASD patients, students will search for molecules expressed specifically in subjects with ASD and study medical applications)
(2) ASD animal model research (Using animal model that represent the clinical symptoms of ASD, students will engage in pathophysiology research to elucidate the mechanism underlying specific energy metabolism or synaptic transmission in ASD).
(3) Empirical research on the cycle of violence, developing treatment programs to reduce the ” potential violence ” of children who have experienced violence.
(4) The design and development of support programs for children in need of various types of support, and the implementation and measurement of the effectiveness of the programs.
(5) Empirical research on the genesis and maintenance mechanisms of educational maltreatment, as well as its support and prevention. (6) Research on the cognitive functions of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, with an emphasis on autistic spectrum disorder and specific Learning Disorder.
【Doctoral Program】
We have been actively involved on research aimed at understanding the development of social brain functions at the molecular, cellular and behavioral levels. This course will present fundamental principles of social neuroscience focusing on developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) via understanding of molecular and behavioral mechanism in brain development. In this course, students can learn the followings, (1) Exploratory research on therapeutic targets applicable to ASD medicine (Based on blood samples and brain imaging findings obtained from ASD patients, students will search for molecules expressed specifically in subjects with ASD and study medical applications), and (2) ASD animal model research (Using animals model that represent the clinical symptoms of ASD, students will engage in pathophysiology research to elucidate the mechanism underlying specific energy metabolism or synaptic transmission in ASD), and (3) Research on the cognitive functions of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, with an emphasis on autistic spectrum disorder and specific Learning Disorder.