Kanazawa University, Graduate School of Medical Sciences | Japan
Author Profile
Scopus
Early Academic Pursuits
Prof. Dr. Hikari Okada's academic journey began with a Pharm.D. from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Hokuriku University, Japan, in 2007. His early interest in pharmaceutical sciences led him to pursue a Master's degree in Molecular Biology at the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Ishikawa, Japan, which he completed in 2009. He further honed his expertise by obtaining a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the same institution in 2013.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Okada's professional career started as a Research Associate in the Department of Gastroenterology at the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University. From 2013 to 2015, he worked as a VHFJ fellow and continued his research in the same department as an AMED fellow from 2016 to 2018. He was appointed as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Integrative Medicine for Longevity at the Graduate School of Medical Sciences in 2019. Since 2022, Dr. Okada has been serving as an Associate Professor in Information-Based Medicine Development at the same institution.
Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Okada's research primarily focuses on molecular biology, gastroenterology, and integrative medicine. His significant contributions include the study of molecular mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma, liver cancer stem cells, and hepatitis B and C viruses. His work on the role of Mint3 in triple-negative breast cancer and the involvement of endothelial lipase in hepatitis B virus infection has been widely recognized. Dr. Okada has published extensively, with numerous papers in high-impact journals, highlighting his commitment to advancing medical science.
Accolades and Recognition
Throughout his career, Dr. Okada has received several prestigious awards. In 2013, he was honored with the 11th Takayasu Award for Best Article and the 26th Taisyo Toyama Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to medical research.
Impact and Influence
Dr. Okada's research has had a significant impact on the fields of molecular biology and gastroenterology. His work on cancer stem cells and viral infections has paved the way for new therapeutic approaches and improved understanding of disease mechanisms. His contributions have influenced both clinical practices and ongoing research in these areas.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Okada's legacy is marked by his dedication to research and education. His pioneering work in molecular biology and gastroenterology continues to inspire new generations of scientists and researchers. As an Associate Professor, he is actively involved in mentoring young researchers, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment. Dr. Okada's future contributions are expected to further advance our understanding of complex diseases and lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Notable Publications
Lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated DOCK11-siRNA efficiently reduces hepatitis B virus cccDNA level in infected mice 2024
Beta-Hydroxyisovaleryl-Shikonin Eradicates Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule-Positive Liver Cancer Stem Cells by Suppressing dUTP Pyrophosphatase Expression 2023
Functional involvement of endothelial lipase in hepatitis B virus infection 2023 (2)
Identification of a Transmembrane Protein Involved in Shear Stress Signaling and Hepatocarcinogenesis After a Sustained Virological Response to Hepatitis C Virus 2023 (3)