Our current research focuses on the relationship between piRNAs and intracellular symbiotic bacteria. We are also investigating the phenomenon of piRNA self-organization. These studies employ a mixture of bioinformatics and molecular biology methods.
Shoji Laboratory, to be established in January 2024, is dedicated to advancing our understanding and application of small RNAs, particularly PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). Our focus is on exploring how piRNAs distinguish “non-self” elements.