Why We are Focusing on Development of Viral Vectors ?
The Era of Gene Therapy: Gene therapy drugs are expected to revolutionize medicine in the near future, potentially replacing one-third of existing pharmaceuticals, with viral vectors playing a central role in this transformation.
Significant Advances in Viral Vector Research: In Europe and the United States, gene therapy drugs are being actively developed and approved, offering treatments for diseases previously deemed incurable.
Japan’s Lag in Basic Research: Despite an increasing membership in Japan Society of Gene and Cell Therapy, the organization has only around 500 members—far behind the approximately 6,300 members in the equivalent U.S. society.
Japan’s First Viral Vector Research Institution: We are the first research institution in Japan dedicated to advancing viral vector research and innovation under the Gunma University Initiative for Advanced Research (GIAR) Viral Vector Core.
The Largest Viral Vector facility in Japan: Our center is Japan's largest facility for developing viral vectors, supporting many universities and research institutions across the country. Under the leadership of Professor Hirokazu Hirai at the Graduate School of Medicine, we boast Japan’s leading viral vector development team. The Hirai group supplies over 200 viral vectors annually, making a significant impact on life sciences and gene therapy research in Japan
Expanding Research and Innovation: To regain global competitiveness in gene therapy, Japan must strengthen its research base, accelerate innovation, and focus on creating unique viral vectors while securing patents.
Unique Approaches: Japan has the opportunity to lead the way in creating its own viral vectors for gene therapy. Gunma University, with its cutting-edge research capabilities, is poised to take the lead in this effort.
Organizer: Gunma University Institute for Advanced Research (GIAR)
Date: September 25, 2024
Venue: Tokyo Toranomon Global Square Conference