■ Research

Our group is interested in “applied” supramolecular chemistry. While previous work in the field of supramolecular chemistry centered mostly on fundamental research, current developments suggest that the field is well positioned to make significant contributions to various research fields. In particular, supramolecular sensors for biologically important species or pollutants are some of the most promising applications of molecular recognition materials. To be harnessed for rigorous analytical applications, our research centers on molecular design and synthesis of materials as well as fabrication of devices.

Chemical Sensors based on Organic Thin Film Transistors Functionalized with Molecular Recognition Materials: 

In the realm of electronics, organic thin-film transistors (OTFTs) are some of the most interesting devices owing to their flexibility, solution-processability and ultra-small thickness. Recently, applications of OTFTs have expanded beyond rollable information displays to sensor applications. OTFT-based physical sensors are being researched extensively, while chemical sensors are still in their early stages. In that regard, we are developing OTFT-based chemical sensors functionalized with supramolecular artificial receptors.

(e.g. Chem. – Eur. J. DOI: 10.1002/chem.202003529. /  ACS Sens. 2019, 4, 2571.)

High-throughput Analysis based on Supramolecular Sensor Arrays:

A significant amount of attention is being devoted to the development of supramolecular sensor arrays, owing to their capability to recognize a number of analytes with high classification accuracy. With that in mind, we especially focus on simultaneous analysis of multiple analytes in biological fluids or environmental water. This can contribute to the development of high-throughput analytical methods in pharmaceutical, medical, and environmental research.

(e.g. Chem. – Eur. J. DOI: 10.1002/chem.202002262. / Chem. Sci. 2020, 11, 3790.)

■ Message to non-specialists

My goal is to develop Doraemon’s secret tools in my laboratory. Currently, our research focuses on the development of chemical sensors that can contribute to safe, secure and healthy living. For example, our developed materials will visualize substances harmful to the human body. Moreover, our devices will enable real-time monitoring of health conditions. I believe that our chemical sensors can realize everyone’s wish to live longer and eat lots of delicious foods in the near future.

Tsuyoshi Minami