Recent progresses in nanoscience and nanotechnology lead to creation of novel membranes and interfaces that are organized and functionalized at nanometer scales. Such nanostructured membranes and interfaces are also found in nature and play important roles. We pursue novel experimental research focused on elucidation and control of chemical processes at nanostructured membranes and interfaces both in artificial and biological systems. In order to discover their superb properties, we develop advanced experimental methodologies by employing our expertise in electrochemistry and nanofabrication. We enable active control and accurate measurement of the processes with high sensitivity, selectivity, and spatial and temporal resolutions. The new knowledge and technology thus obtained promote opportunities for us to address diverse and significant problems in human healthcare, environmental safety, and energy sustainability.
Nanoscale Molecular Transport at the Cell Nucleus
This project interconnects with biology and nanoscience. We develop a novel experimental approach to address a fundamental biological question: how are molecules transported across the nanoporous membrane that separates the nucleus and cytoplasm in eukaryotic cells? In-depth understanding of the nucleocytoplasmic transport mediated by the nuclear pore complex is highly significant in many fields of biology and serves as an important step toward future pharmaceutical regulation of gene expression. We also investigate high permeability of an artificial nanoporous membrane as a model of the nuclear envelope.
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Electrochemistry of One-Dimensional Nanostructures
We discovered a new principle of scanning electrochemical microscopy as a powerful tool to characterize redox activity of individual one-dimensional nanostructures such as single-walled carbon nanotubes, and metal nanowires and nanobands. Spatially resolved characterization of these novel electrode materials, which potentially possess unprecedented activity, is essential for maximizing their rational design and efficient use for sensing, energy conversion and storage, and electrocatalysis.
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Ultrathin-Membrane Ion Sensors for Biomedical and Environmental Analysis
The primary goals of this project are development of ion sensors based on ultrathin polymer membranes and exploration of their real analytical applications. Our universal sensor technology drastically improves the ability to monitor trace quantities of ionic species with biomedical and environmental importance such as anticoagulant heparin and toxic perchlorate, thereby improving human healthcare and environmental safety.
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Shigeru Amemiya
Professor of Chemistry
219 Parkman Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
Phone: 1-412-624-1217
E-mail: [email protected]
Professor of Chemistry
219 Parkman Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
Phone: 1-412-624-1217
E-mail: [email protected]