Discovery and utilization of useful genes from aquatic metagenomes × SDGs

 So far, microorganisms have provided various benefits to human life, such as the production of useful substances and fermented foods. However, it is believed that more than 99% of microorganisms in the environment have not yet been isolated and cultured. In other words, uncultured microorganisms are considered to be a huge unused genetic resource. We are searching those microorganisms by metagenomic method, which directly obtains DNA without culturing them. Once genetic resources are lost, they can never be recovered. We are working to maintain biodiversity and search for unused genetic resources. Through this kind of research, I would like to contribute to SDG (14 LIFE BELOW WATER).

 The United Nations has designated the decade starting in 2021 as the "Decade of Ocean Science," with the aim of contributing to SDGs. Ocean science, as defined by the UN, includes the field of fisheries.