Takashi Nakakuki

About

Takashi Nakakuki is a versatile researcher whose work bridges cutting-edge molecular engineering and practical biomedical robotics. His primary contributions span three interconnected domains: molecular robotics and cybernetics, prosthetic and assistive devices, and surgical robotics. Nakakuki has been a pioneering figure in **Molecular Cybernetics**, an ambitious field he has helped establish, aiming to create "Chemical AI" — artificial intelligence implemented through molecular communication and DNA-based circuits. His foundational work on DNA feedback regulators, including molecular governors and proportional-integral controllers using photoresponsive molecules, has advanced the theoretical and practical architecture of molecular control systems, earning him over 60 citations across these contributions alone. In biomedical robotics, Nakakuki developed myoelectric prosthetic hand systems capable of recognizing and independently controlling finger motions via surface EMG signals — work that has garnered significant attention with over 34 combined citations. He also designed a lightweight, spring-assisted waist power suit to reduce caregiver strain, addressing pressing real-world healthcare challenges. His work on passivity-based bilateral control for robotic forceps with time-varying delays further demonstrates his command of surgical robotics. Across disciplines, Nakakuki's research reflects a rare ability to integrate control theory with biological and robotic systems, making meaningful contributions to both foundational science and human-centered technology.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

Top Papers

1. 1
   From Molecular Robotics to Molecular Cybernetics: The First Step Toward Chemical Artificial Intelligence

   27 citations · 2023
2. 2
   Robot finger design for myoelectric prosthetic hand and recognition of finger motions via surface EMG

   20 citations · 2010
3. 3
   Molecular Governor: DNA Feedback Regulator for Molecular Robotics

   15 citations · 2016
4. 4
   A mechanism design of waist power assist suit for a caregiver by using torsion springs

   14 citations · 2013
5. 5
   Control of myoelectric prosthetic hand based on surface EMG

   14 citations · 2011
6. 6
   Bilateral control for remote controlled robotic forceps system with time varying delay

   12 citations · 2011
7. 7
   Renewable DNA Proportional-Integral Controller with Photoresponsive Molecules

   9 citations · 2022
8. 8
   A Multifunctional Controller Realized by Biochemical Reactions

   7 citations · 2015
9. 9
   Molecular governor that regulates DNA reactions for molecular robotics

   4 citations · 2015
10. 10
    DNA integral controller learning from biological system

    2 citations · 2017

Key Collaborators

Contact & Links