researchproject

Organosulfides

Our group investigates a broad range of organosulfides (e.g., diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide from garlic) and isothiocyanates (e.g., benzyl isothiocyanate, phenethyl isothiocyanate, and sulforaphane from cruciferous vegetables) for their potential as natural hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) donors. We are actively studying the underlying mechanisms of H₂S release and the associated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects of these compounds, with particular emphasis on their potential application in functional foods and nutraceuticals for health promotion and chronic disease prevention.

Resin glycosides

Resin glycosides are a class of glycolipids commonly found in the Convolvulaceae family. They exhibit a wide range of bioactivities, including anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity effects. Our group has discovered that resin glycosides possess lipase inhibitory activity, promoting dietary fat excretion. They may exert anti-obesity effects by modulating bile-sphingolipid metabolism, which is closely linked to changes in gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

Flavonoids

Flavonoids, a diverse group of compounds that occur naturally, are found in a variety of plant-based sources. These compounds are particularly abundant in foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, as well as in beverages like tea and wine. Our group explores the chemistry and bioactivity of natural flavonoids, focusing on their anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral, antibacterial properties and so on. We study both naturally occurring flavonoids and engineer green synthetic routes to create flavonoid dimers and oligomers for enhanced functionality.