The Morizane Lab focuses on kidney disease studies using stem cell-derived tissues. Specifically, we are generating 3D kidney tissues termed organoids from human pluripotent stem cells. Kidney organoids consist of multiple cell types of kidneys, serving as a novel tool for drug development and regenerative medicine. Our group is divided into three main subgroups:

(1) Stem cell differentiation – We are creating novel methods to differentiate human pluripotent stem cells into matured kidney tissues.  We employ automated cell culture, organ-on-a-chip, 3D imaging, and multiomics to improve the induced kidney tissues.

(2) Kidney injury and repair – We are utilizing kidney organoids to understand intrinsic repair mechanisms of kidney epithelial cells.  Our interests range from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD).

(3) Genome editing and genetic kidney diseases – We are generating genetic disease models using genome editing and iPS reprogramming. Our current focus includes autosomal polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD).