The goal of the Human Imaging Division is to elucidate the multilevel pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases based on brain imaging. We are conducting cutting-edge multimodal brain imaging research in close collaboration with the Department of Radiology, aiming at the development of ultra-early diagnosis methods and innovative biomarkers. We also collect brain images and biological samples, and use AI and mathematical models to assess the relationship between brain imaging findings and multi-level pathophysiological conditions to discover new therapeutic targets.

Watanabe Hirohisa Neurology Professor

We have been building a large-scale registry of high-quality clinical data, brain images, and biological samples for neurodegenerative diseases, and using this registry to conduct network analysis, mathematical modeling, and consortium-based studies of molecular pathology.

Mizuki Ito Clinical Professor of Neurology

Our research focuses on the early diagnosis and assessment of neurodegenerative diseases. Using MRI and nuclear medicine imaging, we develop biomarkers to monitor disease progression.

Yasuaki Mizutani Associate Professor, Department of Neurology

I am promoting research on biomarkers involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases through the high-quality storage of biological samples and new methods of measurement/analysis in cooperation with investigators in our university and other institutions, and I am engaged in the establishment/management of a registry system for patients with neurodegenerative diseases and healthy adults.

Sayuri Shima Associate Professor, Department of Neurology

I assist in the operation of a registry system for patients with neurodegenerative disease and healthy aging subjects. I also conduct research on a 3D VR navigation system for the detection of entorhinal cortex lesions, considered the earliest detectable pathological change in Alzheimer's disease, to improve the early diagnosis of AD.

Ryunosuke Nagao Senior Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology

I am analyzing clinical data on neurodegenerative diseases, represented by multiple system atrophy, and brain function images to clarify the pathogenesis of these diseases for early diagnosis/therapeutic intervention and the development of specific biomarkers.

Toshiki Maeda Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology

I am promoting research to clarify the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease using procedures, such as cerebral blood flow SPECT, adopting the latest statistical analysis methods. Results regarding the etiology of a reduction in primary visual cortex blood flow in the presence of this disease have been obtained.

Reiko Ohdake Speech-Language Pathologist, Department of Neurology

I concentrate on understanding the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease, by studying temporal changes in higher brain functions and developing early diagnostic methods using visual, auditory, and vocal indicators.