#Japan #Tokyo #Nikon #Sekisui Chemical #Organoid Research

Advancing Organoid Cultivation Research with Nikon

Sekisui Chemical Co., led by President Ikusuke Shimizu, has recently announced a partnership with Nikon Corporation, under the leadership of President and Representative Director Yasuhiro Omura, to promote the development of organoid cultivation techniques. They will be conducting a call for joint research aimed at expanding the frontiers of organoid research has become more significant as the technology shows promise in drug development and regenerative medicine.

Background of the Joint Research Call

The advancements in organoid culture technology are remarkable, showing potential applications in various fields, including drug discovery and regenerative medicine. However, further research is needed to improve cell function and structural control, ensure reproducibility in cultivation, and mimic the in vivo environment. In light of these challenges, Sekisui Chemical and Nikon are inviting research proposals on diverse themes to deepen their collaborative research efforts in advancing organoid technologies.

Sekisui Chemical has developed Ceglu™, a chemical synthesis scaffold enabling stable cultivation of pluripotent stem cells, which is set to launch in 2025. The company is also working on the Ceglu™ Dot Plate, which is designed to facilitate the formation of three-dimensional cell aggregates by applying Ceglu™ in microdot form. By leveraging these technologies, Sekisui aims to establish a high-functioning and reproducible organoid cultivation regime.

Nikon, on the other hand, is known for its superior optical performance and versatile modular configurations, catering to the diverse needs of research institutions and enterprises. Through its innovative microscopy systems, Nikon aspires to enhance efficiency and accuracy in data acquisition and analysis, providing automation systems for live-cell imaging and fluorescence microscopy.

Research Themes and Application Details

The call for research proposals includes:

• - Theme A: Research on high-functioning and reproducible organoid cultivation formulations.
• - Theme B: Studies focused on the automation and evaluation methods of organoid cultivation utilizing imaging and analysis technologies.
• - Free Theme: Research that aligns with the goals of this call.

Eligibility

Researchers affiliated with universities, research facilities, or companies are eligible to apply.

Application Period

The period for submitting proposals is set from March 19, 2026, to May 31, 2026.

Application Process

Applicants are invited to visit the official website to access additional details and submit their application documents.

Roles of the Partner Companies

• - Sekisui Chemical: Will provide the Ceglu™ Dot Plate along with data science support focusing on image analysis and materials informatics for research development assistance.
• - Nikon: Will offer imaging opportunities using Nikon’s biological microscope system, alongside image analysis support for research development.

Through this collaboration, both Sekisui Chemical and Nikon aim to significantly strengthen support for organoid researchers, contributing to both academic and industrial advancements in this burgeoning field of study, as well as fostering the evolution of drug development and regenerative medicine.

Find out more about their exciting initiatives by visiting the following links:

• - Ceglu™ Multiwell Plates
• - Nikon Biological Microscopy Systems