Masato Yoshizawa
Associate Professor, School of Life Sciences, College of Natural Sciences
Phone: (808) 956-6682
Email: yoshizaw@hawaii.edu
Web: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/lifesciences/people/people-faculty/masato-yoshizawa/
MY RESEARCH
I am interested in the genetic and molecular pathways that drive brain evolution. My team uses the Mexican tetra cavefish as a model system and addresses the mechanisms of behavioral shifts as readouts of the brain evolution -- particularly, taking into account of gut microbiota as the largely overlooked 'heritable' component of brain evolution.
C-MĀIKI SYNERGY
Gut microbiota is suggested to have a large effect on the brain functions, whose dysregulations is associated with autism and/or ADHD. We will contribute to C-MĀIKI by determining the beneficial microorganism that can mitigate stereotypic repetitive behaviors.
IMPACT TO HAWAII
Under the collaboration with the local autism physician, Dr. Ryan Lee, a C-MĀIKI researcher, Dr. Joanne Yew, and other colleagues in Hawaii, we will develop alternative treatments for autism by diet supplement. This new and sustainable approach has a good potential to benefit Hawaii patients. Our research will inform the possible association between metabolic and psychiatric conditions and how it links vulnerability and resilience.
