Chikashi Toyoshima: Visualizing the Relationship between Structure and Cellular Activity

Conversations With History - Chikashi Toyoshima

Chikashi Toyoshima; Professor at the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, Univerity of Tokyo
Abstract: 

Conversations host Harry Kreisler welcomes biophysicist Chikashi Toyoshima for a discussion of his remarkable achievement in capturing the first images of cellular activity as the calcium ion pump makes possible the contraction and relaxation of muscle tissue on a signal from the brain. Topics covered include: how structure determines process in cellular activity, the technical innovations required for this breakthrough in the biosciences, and why visualization is so important in understanding cellular processes. He also reflects on creativity in science and how the images he captured affected his understanding of humankind's place in the universe.

http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/people8/Toyoshima/toyoshima-con0.html

Key Words: Scientists, Cells, Bioscience, Brain
Author: 
Chikashi Toyoshima
Publication date: 
April 30, 2008
Publication type: 
Conversations with History