#Japan #Okayama #Okayama University #TC College #Cryo-Electron Microscopy

Overview of the Lab Tours at Okayama University

On November 17 and 18, 2025, Okayama University, represented by the head of the Comprehensive Technology Department, held an informative lab tour under the TC College Medical and Engineering Program. This event allowed students to explore various research facilities and engage with advanced technologies used in medical science.

Day One: Exploring the Facilities

The first day’s itinerary included visits to five different facilities located at the Tsushima Campus of Okayama University. Students had the chance to interact with cutting-edge equipment and learn from esteemed professors leading research in their respective fields.

Professor Tetsuya Uchida, from the Graduate School of Environmental Science, provided an insightful presentation on the development of high-performance Scanning Probe Microscopes (SPMs) and artificial retina films. The students toured the clean room set up for producing artificial retinas, experiencing firsthand the meticulous environment conducive to such advanced scientific work.

The students also participated in discussions led by Professor Hiroaki Funabashi and Associate Professor Taketo Inoue from the Assisted Reproductive Technology Center. They focused on the significance of infertility treatments and the training of embryologists. During this segment, the students observed various common equipment, including flow cytometers and real-time PCR machines, enhancing their understanding of the technology used in medical diagnostics.

In the afternoon sessions, they continued their explorations with Takashi Miyaji and Narunobu Juki, who guided them through the Genome and Proteome Analysis section. The students engaged in discussions involving mass spectrometry, DNA sequencing devices, and confocal microscopes, allowing them to grasp the practical aspects of these essential research tools.

To conclude the first day, they moved to the International Structural Biology Research Center, where they were introduced to the cutting-edge Cryo-Plasma FIB-SEM and Cryo-Electron Microscopy. Professors Jianren Shen, Osamu Numamoto, and Bi Chen Cai explained the advanced imaging capabilities and how they have revolutionized molecular analysis. The students marveled at the ability to view 3D images of molecular structures through specialized glasses, showcasing the depth of information contained within their respective data sets.

Day Two: Genetics and Genomics Field

The following day brought further exploration, this time at Okayama University Hospital’s Genetic and Genomic Fusion Promotion Laboratory. Students received an overview of the laboratory’s operations from Professor Hidehito Tomita, a leading figure in medical development. They learned about handling pathological specimens, thin-section techniques, nucleic acid extraction, and evaluation methods in cancer gene panel testing from Chief Clinical Laboratory Technologist Hirofumi Inoue.

They also examined the automated gene testing devices, such as the cobas 6800 system, facilitating understanding of the genomic analysis workflow. Professor Tomita further demonstrated the utilization of the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler, allowing students to practice selecting observation areas for multi-omics analysis, expanding their knowledge of modern biomedical research methodologies.

Student Feedback

Participants expressed their gratitude and surprise at the level of technology available at Okayama University. Miki Iwama from the Comprehensive Technology Department remarked, "I was astonished by the advanced machinery present at Okayama University. The innovative research taking place was incredibly intriguing. It made me realize my knowledge gaps and has greatly widened my perspective. I sincerely appreciate everyone involved in facilitating this experience."

Similarly, Masahiro Fujii highlighted the invaluable opportunity to engage with various research fields and equipment, emphasizing how these experiences could enhance the university’s research workflow and promote synergies among the staff.

Conclusion

As articulated by Sato Michihito, Vice President and Senior URA, the university's environment fosters interdisciplinary education and collaboration. He invited participants to look forward to the continued advancement of personnel development within the diverse fields at Okayama University, supporting the institution's mission as a hub of innovative research and education.

Okayama University remains committed to fostering collaboration among technical staff and enhancing their skills through diverse training programs. They will strategically promote initiatives to support its unique identity as a cornerstone research university, responsive to ongoing challenges and changes in the academic landscape.