2024.09.03
*Announcement* Attended the joint press conference (Establishment of the joint research course “Tissue Regeneration and Therapy”)
On September 1, 2024, the University established the Department of Tissue Regeneration and Therapy in collaboration with Central Glass Co. This course will conduct research aimed at the development of innovative regenerative medical products using “cryopreserved” fibroblast cell sheets.
Cell sheets are sheets of cultured fibroblast cells harvested from humans, and are attracting attention as a new treatment option for patients who have difficulty being treated with conventional drugs. The cell sheets are transplanted into the affected area, and the growth factors secreted from the cell sheets act on the surrounding cells to promote treatment. It is expected to be highly effective in the treatment of intractable ulcers and suture tissue regeneration in the surgical field.
The cell survival rate of conventional cell sheets has been significantly reduced when they are frozen and thawed, making them unable to meet safety standards. The use of a 3D freezer for regenerative medicine, which was developed through research conducted by Central Glass Co. This enables us to maintain an inventory of cell sheets and provide a flexible supply in accordance with the timing of surgery. In addition, the use of fibroblasts harvested from healthy people other than the patient (other family members) will enable mass production of cell sheets, which is expected to greatly improve convenience.
The company plans to conduct non-clinical safety tests and clinical trials with the aim of commercializing regenerative medicine products using “cryopreserved” fibroblast cell sheets from other family members in fiscal 2030. This project for practical use has been adopted as a subsidy project for the promotion of practical use and industrialization of regenerative medicine in Yamaguchi City and Ube City in 2024, and a joint press conference was held at Ube City Hall on September 3, 2024.
Outline of the joint research course
Title: Department of Tissue Regeneration and Therapy
Establishment period: September 1, 2024 – August 31, 2027
Location: Yamaguchi University Kogushi Campus
Faculty in charge: Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
Professor Koichi Hamano, Assistant Professor Koji Ueno, Department of Surgery and Clinical Science
Professor Taro Takami, Lecturer Toshihiko Matsumoto, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
