On 28 July, Kyoto University Hospital hosted the 16th Cell/Regenerative Medicine Study Seminar at Shiran Kaikan. The seminar series was launched in November 2009 as part of efforts to promote development and applications of regenerative medicine research based on embryonic, somatic, and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells, and contribute to the advancement of medicine. The 16th event attracted 110 attendees, mostly medical professionals from Kyoto University and other institutions.
Following opening remarks by KU Hospital Director Nobuya Inagaki, Dr Norimasa Miyamoto, senior principal scientist for global cardiovascular assessment at Eizai Co Ltd, delivered a lecture entitled "Assessment of Drug-Induced Risk Using Human iPSC-Derived Cells". Three academic lectures then introduced the latest achievements in the field: "Current Situation and Challenges of the Cardiac Regenerative Therapy for Advanced Heart Failure" by Dr Keitaro Domae, program-specific assistant professor at Osaka University Hospital's Heart Center; "Establishment and History of KU Hospital's Cell Processing Center (CPC) -- Standing Position of an Academia CPC" by Dr Taira Maekawa, director of KU Hospital's Department of Transfusion Medicine and Cell Therapy; and "Regulation on Products for Regenerative Medicine by the Health Ministry" by Mr Kiyohito Nakai, director of the Medical Device Evaluation Division, Pharmaceutical Safety and Environmental Health Bureau of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.
Finally, Dr Jun Takahashi, professor at the Center for iPS Research and Application (CiRA), delivered a special lecture entitled "Stem Cell Transplant Therapy for Parkinson's Disease". The ensuing Q&A session wrapped up the symposium with a lively discussion.
Director Inagaki delivering opening remarks
Professor Takahashi delivering a special lecture
