1. Bio-functionalization of metals with surface modification
Bio-functionalization of metals is investigated with surface treatment techniques, such as molecule immobilization and anodic oxidation. These surface treatments make it possible to inhibit protein adsorption, platelet adhesion, and biofilm formation, and to enhance wear resistance and hard-tissue compatibility.
2. Development of novel alloys and porous composites for biomedical applications
Novel alloy systems for biomedical applications are designed from the viewpoints of mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Co-Cr-Mo alloys having high strength and ductility for dental applications are developed. The porous alloys having low Young's modulus are obtained with selective laser melting technique.
3. Development of Zr-based alloys for minimizing MRI artifacts
Zr-based alloys with low magnetic susceptibility, high strength and corrosion resistance are investigated for minimizing MRI artifact by controlling their microstructure and constituent phase for aneurysm clips, artificial joints, and dental implants, etc.
4. Effort to minimalize metal allergy
Countermeasure techniques for metal ion release from metallic biomaterials which causes metal allergy are investigated. Novel reagents of patch testing for the detection of sensitization to metal ions are developed.

Metallic biomaterials play an important role as medical devices. Our laboratory mainly deals with effects of crystal structure, process, and thermal treatment on mechanical properties (e.g. strength or toughness). We also focus on structure and property of nanometer-scaled surface phenomena: Formation of living tissue on metals, especially, reactions between biomolecules or cells and metals, changes in surface oxide layers in living tissues, and electrochemical property of metallic biomaterials. The aim of the education is perfect understanding of metallic biomaterials, enabling students to select a proper material for medical treatments or researches.