MCB is pleased to announce that MCB Assistant Professor Kazuki Nagashima has received a $100,000 research gift from Noster Inc. to support his lab’s studies on how the immune system interacts with the microbiome. The award builds on a growing relationship between Nagashima and Noster, reflecting the company’s commitment to supporting early-career scientists and foundational research.
“At Noster, our vision is to advance ‘real world full health’ by supporting research that builds the foundation for future medical and nutritional breakthroughs,” said Kohey Kitao, CEO of Noster. “Dr. Nagashima’s rigorous work in uncovering how gut T cells respond to bacteria is a prime example of the kind of basic science that is essential to this mission. By supporting his laboratory, we aim to encourage discoveries that deepen our understanding of the microbiome and ultimately guide new ways to improve human health.”
Nagashima first connected with Noster in 2024 when he won the NOSTER and Science Microbiome Prize. That recognition led to conversations about possible collaboration, which have now taken shape with this gift. “Even before this funding, we had already begun discussions,” said Nagashima. “What touched me most is that Noster made clear they are interested not only in short-term projects, but in a long-term relationship with my lab.”
Nagashima emphasized that the partnership is about more than financial support. “I am genuinely excited about the scientific collaboration itself,” he said. “Noster has a large library of human-derived bacterial strains and deep expertise in culturing them. My lab has developed technologies to identify which bacteria most strongly influence immune responses. Together, our complementary strengths could create new therapeutic opportunities.”
Nagashima added that Noster’s willingness to back a junior investigator carries particular meaning. “They believe that innovation often comes from early-career scientists,” he explained. “It is encouraging that they are willing to invest in younger labs like mine, and I see this as both a validation of our approach and a unique opportunity to grow.”
His research centers on how gut T cells respond to bacteria in the intestinal environment—a fundamental process with implications for inflammatory disease, metabolic disorders, and overall human health. With Noster’s support, Nagashima hopes to expand his lab’s work and accelerate discoveries.
The $100,000 gift will directly support projects underway in Nagashima’s lab and marks the beginning of a promising collaboration aimed at deepening our understanding of the microbiome and its role in health.
