#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #J-PEAKS #Cryo-EM

Special Lecture on Cutting-edge Medical Research Trends at Okayama University

On February 10, 2026, Okayama University, guided by its commitment to innovation and collaboration in medical research, hosted a special lecture titled "Trends in Cutting-edge Medical Research – Okayama University's Cryo FIB-SEM and Tomography Special Lecture in Shikata." The event took place at the Shikata Campus Auditorium and attracted a diverse audience, including participants both on-site and online.

The opening remarks were delivered by Kazuhiro Naruse, the Dean of the Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences. He highlighted the significance of the event in fostering discussions among researchers and innovators in the medical field. Following his introduction, Masaki Kamoto, Deputy Director of the Research and Innovation Collaborative Organization, provided an overview of Okayama University’s J-PEAKS initiative. Shuko Numamoto, Associate Professor at the International Structural Biology Research Center, then presented the features and advancements of Okayama University’s cryo-electron microscopy and cryo FIB-SEM technologies, which are pioneering facilities aimed at enhancing research collaboration within the Chugoku and Shikoku regions.

The highlight of the event was the keynote lecture by Professor Hitoshi Kurumizaka from the University of Tokyo's Quantitative Biosciences Institute. His presentation, titled "Molecular Basis for Genome Function Regulation Governed by Chromatin Structure and Dynamics," delved into the intricate mechanisms by which chromatin influences genomic function. As a leading researcher in the structural analysis of eukaryotic DNA within the nucleus, Professor Kurumizaka shared groundbreaking findings from his recent studies, emphasizing the dynamic control of genome functionality in a multilayered manner through the use of cryo-electron microscopy.

Following his presentation, an engaging Q&A session moderated by Jianren Shen, Director of the International Structural Biology Research Center, allowed attendees to further explore the implications of Professor Kurumizaka's work. This interactive segment provided a valuable opportunity for participants to delve deeper into the forefront of genomic research, fostering an atmosphere of dialogue and curiosity among up-and-coming scientists, graduate students, and faculty members alike.

As part of its ongoing efforts under the J-PEAKS initiative, Okayama University is actively advancing the usage of advanced analytical equipment and facilitating collaboration among various institutions. Notably, they have introduced the first cryo-electron microscope and the first cryo FIB-SEM device in Western Japan, enhancing their capabilities for shared equipment usage.

The event encapsulated Okayama University's dedication to being a prominent research university with a distinct regional identity, aiming towards the realization of groundbreaking innovations in medical research. As the university continues to strengthen its partnerships and expand its resource networks, it stands poised to contribute significantly to the global academic and medical landscape.

Whether through collaborative research partnerships or innovative studies, Okayama University remains committed to its vision of advancing medical science and education, fostering an environment that is both inclusive and forward-thinking. The stakeholders and local communities are encouraged to look forward to more initiatives and activities from Okayama University, reinforcing its role as a central hub for research and exploration in the realms of medicine and science.



The information was released on May 31, 2026, highlighting ongoing developments within the university that align with global scientific goals and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Supported by various bodies, Okayama University strives to ensure a future enriched with sustainable and impactful research.