#Personalized Medicine #Tokyo Medical Research #Nucleic Acid Medicine

The 8th Metropolitan Medical Research Citizen Lecture

On March 14, 2026, the Tokyo Metropolitan Medical Research Institute will host the 8th Metropolitan Medical Research Citizen Lecture, focusing on the theme of "Nucleic Acid Medicine for Personalized Healthcare."

Overview of the Event

This session aims to share valuable insights regarding groundbreaking research addressing critical diseases—such as neurological disorders, mental health issues, cancer, and infectious diseases—through simplified presentations tailored for the general public. The goal is to communicate the effectiveness of nucleic acid medicine and personalized treatment strategies.

We are honored to welcome Dr. Hiroya Kuwahara from the Tokyo University of Science, specializing in Neurological Pathology and the Center for Nucleic Acid and Peptide Drug Discovery (TIDE).

Event Details

• - Date & Time: March 14, 2026, from 14:30 to 16:00 (JST).
• - Format: Hybrid event conducted in person at the venue and via Zoom.

Lecture Topics

1. Title: "Tackling Genetic Abnormalities: The Future of Tailored New Drug Development with Nucleic Acid Medicine"
- Speaker: Dr. Hiroya Kuwahara, Tokyo University of Science

Abstract: With advancements in genome analysis technology, an increasing number of rare diseases are being identified due to underlying genetic abnormalities. Personalized medicine allows for the design and manufacturing of drugs tailored to individual patients, with the goal of understanding treatment efficacy through direct administration. In particular, nucleic acid medicines, constructed from DNA and RNA, target the fundamental causes of diseases, offering hope to patients with previously untreatable rare diseases. The U.S. has witnessed a surge in successful cases, and Japan is joining efforts to establish clinical trials through collaboration among healthcare providers, researchers, pharmaceutical companies, government bodies, and patient organizations. This lecture will discuss the progress, challenges, and future outlook of personalized medicine utilizing nucleic acid treatments.

2. Title: "C Hepatitis Virus Research: Past, Present, and Future"
- Speaker: Dr. Hideya Kawaji, Director of the Genome Medicine Research Center, Tokyo Metropolitan Medical Research Institute

Abstract: Our body comprises around 37 trillion cells, each performing specific functions supported by genetic activity. Despite all cells sharing common genomic DNA, the roles they play depend on when and how much specific genes are activated. Focusing on how genes are expressed through RNA, the revolutionary approach of nucleic acid medicine allows adjustment at the RNA level. This talk will clarify how genes function and provide foundational knowledge regarding nucleic acid medicines.

Participation Details

• - The event accommodates a maximum of 600 participants (100 in-person and 500 online). Attendance is free of charge, but prior registration is required on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration Instructions

• - In-Person Participation: To attend in-person, please register by sending a postcard or via email.

- Postcard Registration: Write "8th Metropolitan Citizen Lecture (In-Person Request)" on the return postcard, providing your address, name (with furigana), age, phone number, and details of additional participants if applicable. Send it to:

Address: 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan,
Tokyo Metropolitan Medical Research Institute, Public Relations Office

- Email Registration: The subject line should read