Evolutionary Principles and Molecular Mechanisms in Symbiotic Microorganisms and Organelles

The evolution of organelles from symbiotic bacteria, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, has driven major biological innovations. Recent studies reveal diverse microbial symbioses, including metabolic exchange-based and biomolecule-mediated interactions.

We study the transition from intracellular symbiosis to organellogenesis and the survival strategies of highly host-dependent symbiotic microbes. By elucidating microbial symbiosis-driven evolutionary mechanisms, we aim to deepen our understanding of life’s fundamental evolutionary processes.