The Department of Gene and Stem Cell Regenerative Therapeutics was established in January 2023 as an endowed chair in the Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, and is now in its fourth year of activity. Since its inception, our research based on adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) has made substantial progress, and the department has steadily generated tangible results.
Through detailed analyses of ADSCs provided by AS Medical Support Co., Ltd., we have newly identified that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) secreted from these cells plays a crucial role in the treatment of ischemic stroke, and we have presented these findings at scientific conferences. Furthermore, we have identified a novel inflammation-regulating molecule, FAP, in the context of ischemic stroke and reported this as a distinctive and original achievement.
In addition, our collaborative studies with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Osaka University have demonstrated the efficacy of the anti-inflammatory peptide MHP1 in osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, highlighting the potential for further clinical applications. We have also achieved publication of our work on novel cancer therapies targeting tumor immune regulation, indicating that our research outcomes spanning from basic science to clinical application are steadily coming to fruition.
Although our group is still relatively small, we capitalize on our high agility and strong collaborative spirit, and the challenges undertaken by each member are leading to concrete achievements. Moving forward, we will continue to accelerate our research efforts so that these new developments can be translated into clinical practice and ultimately contribute to better medical care.