#Japan #Tokyo #Glutathione #Tokyo University #WAKU

Joint Research Initiative for Soil Restoration in Ukraine

Tokyo University of Agriculture, located in Setagaya, Tokyo, and WAKU, based in Okayama City, have launched a collaborative research project aimed at revitalizing farmlands in Ukraine. This initiative falls under the auspices of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), promoting green industrial recovery in Ukraine through technology transfer from Japanese enterprises. The main goal of this project is to establish plant cultivation techniques utilizing glutathione for the purification of heavy metal contaminated soils in Ukraine.

Research Background

Since the onset of conflict in 2022, agricultural productivity in Ukraine has dramatically declined. Heavy metal contamination, particularly from lead and cadmium due to shelling and military vehicle activities, poses a serious threat requiring innovative approaches for soil rehabilitation. Glutathione, a natural amino acid compound, is known to play significant roles in maintaining redox balance in plants, enhancing stress resistance, and influencing the absorption of heavy metals. WAKU aims to leverage these properties to support the reconstruction of agricultural production in Ukraine.

Research Objectives

The joint study between Tokyo University of Agriculture and WAKU will focus on the following core activities:

1. Heavy Metal Dynamics Analysis

We will analyze the movement of cadmium and zinc within plants when glutathione is applied, assessing the feasibility of using plants for purification.

2. Gene Expression Analysis (RNA-seq Analysis)

The project will identify glutathione-responsive genes to understand the detoxification and defense mechanisms within plants at a molecular level.

3. Design of Plant Purification Techniques

Using insights from the research, we will propose suitable plant species and application conditions to address heavy metal contamination issues in Ukraine.

Future Prospects

The scientific findings from this collaborative research are expected to pave the way for pilot cultivation trials scheduled for 2026 within Ukraine. Building on the foundational research from Tokyo University of Agriculture, WAKU will work closely with local production entities, research institutions, and government bodies to develop a demonstration model for soil restoration using glutathione.

Looking ahead, the expertise gained will not only aim for success in Ukraine but also consider technology transfer to neighboring countries such as Poland and Romania, positioning itself as a cornerstone technology for "Green Recovery" initiatives across Europe.

The issue of heavy metal-contaminated soils transcends Eastern Europe, affecting regions in Asia and Africa as well. The potential for glutathione-based, non-chemical, non-GMO purification techniques illustrates a promising model case for the next generation of environmental agricultural practices.

Company Overview

Company Name: WAKU Inc.
Location: ORIC Room 101, 5303 Haga, Okayama City
CEO: Ryosuke Himeno
Established: July 2022
Business Scope: Research, development, and sales of biostimulants and fertilizers utilizing glutathione.
URL: WAKU Official Site

Contact for Inquiries

Tokyo University of Agriculture Research Institute: Kanou
Phone: 03-5477-2532 Fax: 03-5477-2634 Email: [email protected]

For Press Inquiries:
Tokyo University of Agriculture President's Office, Planning and Public Relations Division (Address: 1-1-1 Sakuragaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo, 156-8502, Japan)
Phone: 03-5477-2650 Email: [email protected]

WAKU Inc. PR Contact:
(Room 101, 5303 Haga, Okayama City, 701-1221)
Email: [email protected]