Dr. Sakai is Professor, Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi, Japan. The focus of our research group is how extracellular matrix (ECM) regulates cellular functions under physiological/pathological conditions such as embryonic development, adult tissue remodelling, and carcinogenesis. The overall long-term goal is to advance our knowledge of molecular mechanisms underlying proper three-dimensional reconstitution of ECM architecture in response to tissue injury and how dysregulation of cell-ECM interactions causes chronic fibrotic disorders and cancer. Research interests include integrin-fibronectin functions, mechanisms of collagen fibril network formationin response to tissue damage, liver fibrosis, and slow healing response to adult tendon injury. We utilize extensive mouse genetic approaches, including conditional knockout technology.