On 19 January, Kyoto University Hospital hosted the 15th iPS Cell/Regenerative Medicine Study Seminar at Shiran Kaikan.
The Hospital has engaged in research on embryonic, somatic, and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells for the advancement of regenerative medicine. In order to further promote research, the dissemination of its achievements, and contribution to the advancement of medicine, it launched the seminar series in November 2009. The 15th Seminar attracted a record 180 participants, mostly medical professionals from Kyoto University and other institutions.
Following an opening address by KU Hospital Director Nobuya Inagaki, Dr Seigo Izumo, Global Head of Regenerative Research Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, delivered a lecture entitled, "Takeda's engagement in regenerative medicine". Academic lectures were then delivered by three KU researchers: "Development of induction method to differentiate and mature iPS cell-derived cardiomyocyte" by Associate Professor Yoshinori Yoshida of the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA); "Latest developments in research on regeneration of respiratory organs using human iPS cells" by Program-Specific Associate Professor Shimpei Gotoh of KU Hospital; and "Regeneration of T lymphocytes using iPS cell generation techniques" by Associate Professor Shin Kaneko of CiRA. Participants seemed enthralled by the presentations on the latest achievements in iPS cells and regenerative medicine.
Finally, Dr Hideyuki Okano, dean of Keio University School of Medicine, delivered a special lecture entitled, "Regeneration of the nervous system and disease studies using iPS cell generation techniques". A Q&A session followed, resulting in a vibrant discussion.
Dean Okano delivering a special lecture
Director Inagaki delivering the opening address
