Nippi Research Institute of Biomatrix (NRIB) is a world leading collagen research institute. Highly qualified researchers are continuously striving to understand the basic science of collagen and other extracellular matrix components, resulting in numerous scientific publications every year. In addition, our researchers develop advanced products that, along with our novel research findings, are applied in a variety of industries including food and beverages, dietary supplements, regenerative medicine, and cosmetics.
The projects investigated at the Nippi Research Institute of Biomatrix span diverse research and development areas, including
- Basic science of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, especially collagen proteins
- Collagen research for medicine and tissue engineering
- Collagenase and other proteinases for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
- Physiology of the collagen derived oligopeptides and amino acids by ingestion
- Science and engineering of laminin and other ECM components
- Science of ageing
The institute is located in Toride City, Ibaraki, 40 km (26 miles) northeast from Tokyo. The institute is surrounded by nature and close to the city as well.
▲Cells cultured on type
I collagen stained
with DAPI（blue）, phalloidin（red）,
and anti-vinculin antibody（green） |
▲decellularized heart tissue |
▲TEM image of collagen fibrils |
History of the institute
When Nippi was founded in 1907, an analysis laboratory of leather was also established. In 1921, the laboratory became an independent organization, known as the Research Center.
In 1938, the Japan Institute of Leather Research was established. The target of research expanded from leather to basic research of collagen and gelatin, and its applications.
In 1994, to adapt to the recent development of the Matrix Biology, the Research Center was reorganized into the Nippi Research Institute of Biomatrix.
Today, the research lies mainly in investigating the precise functions of extracellular matrix, especially collagen. The institute’s advanced research findings have been continuously applied to a variety of fields, including medicine, cosmetics, health, and foods.