Reika Okamoto
Papers
1
Total Citations
40
H-Index
1
About
Reika Okamoto is a biochemist whose research centers on the discovery and characterization of small-molecule inhibitors of tankyrase enzymes, with a particular focus on developing innovative screening platforms. Her most cited work, "A novel yeast cell-based screen identifies flavone as a tankyrase inhibitor" (2010, 40 citations), introduced a groundbreaking approach to drug discovery by leveraging yeast genetics to identify natural product inhibitors. This study not only demonstrated that flavone, a common dietary flavonoid, can selectively inhibit tankyrase activity—a key target in cancer and Wnt signaling pathways—but also validated yeast as a cost-effective, high-throughput system for screening bioactive compounds. Okamoto’s contributions have provided a foundation for subsequent research into tankyrase inhibitors as potential therapeutics, bridging the gap between natural product chemistry and cellular biology. Her work is particularly notable for its methodological innovation, offering a template for future screens that prioritize biological relevance and accessibility. With 40 citations, this paper remains a cornerstone in the field of chemical biology, reflecting Okamoto’s impact on both fundamental science and translational drug development.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1A novel yeast cell-based screen identifies flavone as a tankyrase inhibitor40 citations · 2010