Research Center for Drug Discovery

As the core of industry-academia collaboration at Keio University's Faculty of Pharmacy, the Research Center for Drug Discovery has the mission of generating innovation through the interaction of multiple fields (open innovation), returning research results to society, and nurturing human resources who will be active on the world stage through the fusion of various knowledge (highly skilled human resource development).

To that end, we strive to create the necessary environment for the execution and collaboration of each project. Additionally, we actively promote exchanges between different fields, welcoming the participation of domestic and international researchers and corporate researchers with diverse knowledge and skills.

We are using genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 and data analysis techniques such as machine learning models to elucidate the functions of microRNAs, which are encapsulated in extracellular vesicles (EVs) and transport between cells.

EVs contain a variety of component molecules, including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and glycans, and we are required to collaborate with many researchers and companies who have expertise in their biological, physical and chemical properties.

Basic vs. clinical, pharmaceutical vs. medical, domestic vs. international, wet vs. dry research. As specialization advances in every field, it is becoming increasingly important to nurture researchers with a wide range of experience and a foundation as generalists with broad perspectives.

We have all of these elements. The fusion of knowledge and technology from multiple fields is essential to exploring new dramas mediated by EVs.

Principle Investigator, MATSUZAKI Juntaro

Principle Investigator,   ARITA Ｍakoto 

Principle Investigator, HANAOKA  Kenjiro