The Molecular Biology Society of JapanThe 45th Annual Meeting of the Molecular Biology Society of Japan Cooperated by the Biophysical Society of Japan

Biotechnology Seminar

Nanopore sequence for any living thing
Co-sponsored：Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc

Moderator
Yuichi Hasegawa（Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc）

Speaker
Nanopore sequencing of non-model organisms: tardigrades, spiders, and euglena
Kazuharu Arakawa
（Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Keio University / The Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems (ExCELLS), National Institutes of Natural Sciences）

Speaker
Oxford Nanopore Sequencer Frontiers
Mari Miyamoto（Oxford Nanopore Technologies plc）

Detail

Biological evolution is the process of continuous creation of "exceptions" that can deviate from natural selection pressures, and the resulting diversity itself is the hallmark of biology. The advent of high-throughput approaches exemplified by genomics is finally freeing us from the use of confined set of model organisms, opening up doors for the study of all 1.75 million species. For example, we have led the Spider Silkome Project to analyze the transcriptome and silk mechanics of 1,000 species of spiders, in order to elucidate the mechanism for the exceptional toughness of spider silks, a material with strength greater than steel and elasticity comparable to nylon. Based on the sequence motifs that contribute to the physical properties, we have improved the physical properties of artificial spider silk used in industrial applications. We also determined the genomes of tardigrades, extremotolerant organisms that can survive 10 days of direct exposure to the space vacuum, and identified numerous resistance-related proteins, some of which can even confer cells of other species extremotolerance. Furthermore, through the genome analysis of euglena, a photosynthetic protozoa which can switch between heterotrophs and autotrophs, we have identified the gene for the synthesis of paramylon, a precursor for the synthesis of wax ester, which is foreseen as a promising biofuel. Several challenges had to be overcome to achieve these researches, and nanopore sequencing proved to be the solution. For example, spider silk genes are long repetitive sequences spanning several tens of kbp, and in tardigrades, only a minute amount (about 50 pg) of genomic DNA can be obtained from a specimen. In euglena, existence of a fifth base J complicated the analysis. In this talk, I will detail the examples and new methods developed to overcome these challenges using nanopore sequencing.

Oxford Nanopore Technologies' sequencers have been used in a variety of fields, starting with the launch of the palm-sized sequencer MinION in 2016, and are now being used in a wide range of fields, with the desktop-type high-throughput sequencers GridION and with the release of PromethION, the application of the system to large-scale genome analysis, including human genomes, animals and plants, is also expanding.
In addition to reading long reads, the Oxford Nanopore sequencers are characterised by the fact that they read DNA and RNA molecules as they are, allowing their modifications to be read simultaneously, and the fact that the sequencing itself is performed in real-time, which previously meant The sequencing itself is carried out in real-time, which means that results that previously had to wait until the sequencer was finished can be obtained more quickly. With the introduction of the new P2 series of compact high-throughput sequencers, in addition to the significant improvements in accuracy with the latest chemistries, more researchers are utilising nanopore sequencers than ever before. In this session, in addition to an introduction to the principles and latest chemistries, examples of the latest applications in a variety of species will be presented.

Simple and sensitive in situ Hybridization by ISHpalette
Co-sponsored：Nepa Gene Co., Ltd.

Chairperson
Aki Makanae (Nepa Gene Co., Ltd.)

Speaker
Principle and application of ISHpalette
Yosuke Tsuneoka (Toho University)

Speaker
How to start ISHpalette
Mitsuru Yashiro (Nepa Gene Co., Ltd.)

Detail

Visualization of the mRNAs in the tissue sample is essential technique to understand the role of target genes and to identify cell types. Conventional in situ hybridization (ISH) method has difficulty in the sensitivity, specificity, tissue damage and loss of antigenicity due to penetration treatment, reproductivity and quantification.
Dr. Tsuneoka (Toho University, Faculty of Medicine) and his colleagues have developed the ISHpalette technology, a modified ISH method using hybridization chain reaction, and succeeded to apply it to various tissue samples. The advantage of ISHpalette is not limited to visualization of single-copy mRNA and multiplex target.
The ISHpalette also has various advantages as follows:
-Low cost -Easy to combine ISH and immunostaining -Minimize tissue damage, no permeabilization step -Few steps, easy troubleshooting -Flexible to apply various tissue types without changing protocols -mRNA quantification is available In this seminar, we will invite Dr. Tsuneoka to introduce and show examples of ISHpalette technology.

Latest information and new product introduction of DNBSEQ series sequencers
Co-sponsored：MGI Tech Japan Co, Ltd.

Speaker
Application of DNBSEQ sequencer
Suzuki Yutaka
(Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo)

Detail

In this presentation, the speaker will introduce an overview of the MGI sequencer (T7/G400) that installed in the laboratory. As a result of trial operation, it was possible to perform analysis with almost the same performance as the Illumina sequencer NovaSeq6000, which is operated in parallel. The speaker will also give specific examples of generating sequence data in each aspect of genome/transcriptome/epigenome analysis. In addition, the speaker will also talk about BGI research, which collaborates with MGI, has started practical use of a new spatial transcriptome analysis technology “STOmics”. The MGI sequencer will also be an important platform for this spatial analysis.

Challenges in Drug Discovery and Disease Research Using fast iPS Differentiation Technology (Quick-Tissue™ Technology)
Co-sponsored：RICOH COMPANY., LTD.

Chairperson
Toshihiko Hosoya (RICOH COMPANY., LTD.)

Speaker
Integrating genomic information with iPSC technology uncovers the pathohysiology of mental disorders.
Yuko Arioka
(Phychiatry, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine CAMCR, Nagoya University Hospital)

Speaker
Quick-Tissue™ Technology Accelerates iPSC Drug Discovery
Kazuhiro Aiba
(Elixirgen Scientific Japan, Inc. iPSC division)

Datail

Human iPS cells is expected to accelerate drug discovery and pathological analysis using human-derived cells. However, it has been difficult for reseachers to aquire target differentiated cells from iPS cells in a short period of time with high quality and reproducibility.
Elixirgen Scientific, Inc. has developed Quick-Tissue™ technology, a proprietary differentiation technology that enables the introduction of transcription factors to obtain differentiated cells with fast and low variability in performance.
In this seminar, Dr. Yuko Arioka of Nagoya University will introduce her research on pathological analysis of psychiatric disorders using neurons differentiated from patient-derived iPS cells by Quick-Tissue™ technology.
Dr. Kazuhiro Aiba of Elixirgen Scientific Japan, Inc. will introduce Quick-Tissue™ technology, products and services to support iPS drug discovery, and examples of functional evaluation of differentiated cells.

New normal of fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence lifetime imaging
Co-sponsored：Leica Microsystems K.K.

Chairperson
Shintaro Tanaka (Leica Microsystems K.K.)

Speaker
New normal of fluorescence and confocal microscopy
Nobuhide Tsurumaki (Leica Microsystems K.K.)

Speaker
Fluorescence lifetime imaging with Leica confocal microscope STELLARIS
Suguru Osari (Leica Microsystems K.K.)

Detail

[Subject1] Nowadays, fluorescence observation is used by many researchers as a "normal" instrument in the research field. However, at COVID-19 calamity, it is becoming increasingly important to understand how to conduct research under time constraints. Therefore, we propose the "new normal of fluorescence microscopy" with Leica imaging system, which is an ordinary fluorescence microscope that can acquire ultra-high-resolution images, focusing on how to make fluorescence observation more efficient and produce maximum results in a limited time.
[Subject2] Leica Microsystems has launched next generation confocal microscopes, STELLARIS. In addition to improved detection sensitivity and resolution, the new product also provides a fluorescence lifetime technology that can be easily used by anyone, which has been used only for specific applications. In this seminar, we will discuss "What is fluorescence lifetime?" and "What can you do with that?" The following are some of the technologies that STELLARIS can help you with in life science imaging.

Genome-wide survey of ribosome traversal
Co-sponsored：SCRUM Inc.

Chairperson
Toru Hattori (SCRUM Inc)

Speaker
Genome-wide survey of ribosome traversal
Shintaro Iwasaki
（RNA Systems Biochemistry Laboratory, RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research / Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo）

Detail

Although it has been widely accepted that the protein expression level is simply determined by the abundance of mRNA, by recent genome-wide analysis, mRNA could only explain 30-40% of protein abundance in cells. Given the impact of translation control on the final proteome in cells, monitoring protein synthesis in vivo has been a demanding task, however, has posed an analytic hurdle. To overcome the issue, a technique called ribosome profiling based on the next-generation deep sequencer was developed and indeed enables us to comprehensively and quantitatively survey translation and its regulation in vivo. In this presentation, I would like to introduce the powerful and versatile applications of ribosome profiling to the diverse biological phenomenon.

The interface between genomics and structural biology in studies of epigenetics
Co-sponsored：Illumina K.K.

Facilitator
Reiko Fujiwara (Illumina K.K.)

Speaker
The interface between genomics and structural biology in studies of epigenetics
Hitoshi Kurumizaka
(Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
Next generation sequencers to analyze multiple biological activities
Kenichi Sajiki (Illumina K.K.)

Detail

Dr. Hitoshi Kurumozaka, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, will give a lecture on the following topics at this seminar. Illumina will also provide information on the latest exciting new products.

Biological information is encoded in genomic DNA. In eukaryotes, genomic DNA is accommodated in a spherical nucleus with a diameter of only a few microns, and forms a protein-DNA complex called chromatin. Chromatin is mainly composed of four core histones H2A, H2B, H3, H4, and DNA. The nucleosome is the basic repeating unit of chromatin. Mounting evidences highlight the importance of the chromatin structure in regulating transcription, replication, recombination, and repair. The underlying mechanisms in these processes are considered to be the molecular basis of epigenetics, which is the DNA sequence-independent genome regulation. In fact, structural abnormality of chromatin causes various epigenetic disorders, indicating that the proper regulation of chromatin structure and dynamics plays an important role in maintaining cellular and genomic integrity. In this seminar, I will discuss mechanisms for regulating eukaryotic genome function, focusing on the interface between genome analysis research and chromatin structure research.

VectorBuilder to make big waves for your next research project!
Co-sponsored：VectorBuilder Inc.

Chairperson
Miho Matakatsu (VectorBuilder Inc. Director of Japam Market)

Speaker
Mechanisms of anti-host defense system by a protozoan pathogen Toxoplasma
Masahiro Yamamoto
(Dept. of Immunoparasitology, RIMD, Osaka University)

Speaker
VectorBuilder, who we are, what's our strength
Bruce Lahn (VectorBuilder Inc. Chief Scientist)

Detail

Toxoplasma is a protozoan pathogen that infects all warm-blooded animals, including humans, and that causes fatal toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised individuals. Researchers around the world, including our research group, are conducting research on how Toxoplasma infects the host and overcomes the host's defense system to cause disease. virulence mechanism) is still unknown. In recent years, a gRNA library covering about 7,800 all Toxoplasma genes has been created, and the biology of Toxoplasma has progressed dramatically. Using the library construction service of VectorBuilder, we have constructed a small gRNA library limited to about 400 genes of known and putative virulence factors. We are proceeding with the analysis of the virulence mechanism by genome editing. In this seminar, we will introduce the latest research on the interaction between Toxoplasma and the host defense system using this gRNA library.

VectorBuilder is a one-stop shop for the design, development, and optimization of gene delivery solutions from basic research to clinical applications. Its award-winning Vector Design Studio is a transformative innovation that allows researchers to easily design and order custom vectors online, freeing them from the tedious work of cloning and packaging vectors in the lab. I will introduce our innovative gene delivery solutions and tools for life sciences research and genetic medicine.

Low-cost, space-saving cell culture system & exosome extraction system.
Co-sponsored：SHINKO SEIKI Co., LTD.

Chairperson
Yusuke Anezaki (SHINKO SEIKI Co., LTD.)

Speaker
Introduction of personal cell mass culture system and exosome extraction system products using new technology
Takaki Ushifusa (LCI)

Detail

Initial investment is kept to a minimum with our patented mass culture system. The device has a compact design that saves space.
Semi-automatic culture greatly reduces the burden on cell culture technicians.
The patented exosome extraction device prevents clogging during fractionation with a newly designed filter.

Need support for your KAKENHI research? Sure, we can!
Co-sponsored：Committee on Promoting Collaboration in Life Sciences

Chairperson
Mutsuhiro Takekawa (The Institute of Medical Science,The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
Introduction of activities of Committee on Promoting Collaboration in Life Sciences
Mutsuhiro Takekawa (The Institute of Medical Science,The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
Introduction of supporting activities of Platform of Supporting Cohort Study and Biospecimen Analysis
Yoshinori Murakami
(The Institute of Medical Science,The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
Introduction of supporting activities of Platform for Advanced Genome Science
Ken Kurokawa (National Institute of Genetics)

Speaker
Introduction of supporting activities of Advanced Animal Model Support
Mutsuhiro Takekawa
(The Institute of Medical Science,The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
Introduction of supporting activities of Advanced Bioimaging Support
Kiyokazu Agata (Natl. Inst. Basic Biol.)

Speaker
Introduction of supporting activities of Advanced Bioimaging Support
Shoji Mano
(Lab. Organelle Reg., Natl. Inst. Basic Biol.)

Detail

We will introduce the support activities of four platforms that support the research of researchers in the field of life science who have obtained MEXT KAKENHI.

Exploring the possibility of exosome therapeutics
Co-sponsored：FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation

Chairperson
Naoto Shimada
(FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation)

Speaker
Development of a therapeutic approach for periodontitis using exosomes from human gingiva-derived MSCs
Takao Fukuda
(Section of Periodontics, Kyushu University Hospital)

Speaker
Optimized culture medium for exosome production from MSCs
Hana Onizuka
(FUJIFILM Wako Pure Chemical Corporation)

Detail

Exosomes are one of the extracellular vesicles released from various cells. In vivo, it is used as a communication tool between cells, and is expected to be applied to disease biomarkers and drug delivery systems. In this seminar, we will focus on the development of exosome therapeutics, which are attracting particular attention. We will invite Dr. Takao Fukuda, Section of Periodontics, Kyushu University Hospital, and give a lecture on the progress of his research on "Development of a therapeutic approach for periodontitis using exosomes from human gingiva-derived MSCs."

TBA
Co-sponsored：Agilent Technologies Japan, Ltd.

Speaker
Ayaoko Suzuki
(Department of Computational Biology and Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo)

New Developments in Omics Data Interpretation
Co-sponsored：QIAGEN K.K.

Chairperson
Nahoko Sakai (QIAGEN K.K)

Speaker
Omics analysis for patients with cardiovascular diseases
Yasuhiko Sakata
(Department of Clinical Medicine and Development, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center (NCVC))

Speaker
Introducing QIAGEN IPA, a high-quality interpretation tool for omics data
Ryota Kunita、Nobuyuki Miyajima (QIAGEN K.K)

Detail

Omics-related experimental methods have made great progress, and it is now possible to obtain gene expression information within one-cell and with spatial information. However, elucidating the significance of the gene expression profiles involves greater difficulties than the experimental part. To obtain hypotheses on molecular mechanisms from omics data at the protein, gene, and other levels, it is essential to use a high-quality, comprehensive knowledge base and a vast amount of past omics studies. In this luncheon, Dr. Yasuhiko Sakata at NCVC will present his research on cardiovascular disease research, and Dr. Mikihiko Nimura of QIAGEN will introduce QIAGEN Omics Data Interpretation Tool, IPA.

Multiplex solutions from Bio-Rad - ZE5 Cell Analyzer, a high-performance flow cytometer, and QX600 Droplet Digital PCR, a 6 Color ddPCR
Co-sponsored：Bio-Rad Laboratories K.K.

Presenter
Masazumi Mashiko (Bio-Rad Laboratories K.K.)

Speaker
Accelerate the possibility of multiplex applications with QX600 Droplet Digital PCR
Yukinori Yatsuda (Bio-Rad Laboratories K.K.)

Speaker
Introduction of high-performance flow cytometer "ZE5 Cell Analyzer" with 5-laser 27-fluorescence detection and small particle detector
Yasuma Yoshizumi (Bio-Rad Laboratories K.K.)

Detail

In many studies, major targets are being analyzed as progress is made, and in future studies, an analysis will increasingly be conducted on rarer samples. In analyzing such rare samples, multiplex technology, which can acquire a large amount of information at a time from the same sample volume, is becoming more and more important.
Bio-Rad offers high-performance analyzers employing multiplex technology for nucleic acid, protein, and cell analysis, and in this session, we will introduce 2 instruments for nucleic acid and cell analysis.

QX600 Droplet Digital PCR
Our digital PCR series has been on the market for 10 years and has been utilized in many nucleic acid target types of research such as rare gene mutation analysis in Liquid Biopsy, absolute quantification of vectors for gene-cell therapy, and SARS-CoV-2 detection using wastewater. The QX600 Droplet Reader, which enables multiplex-specific six-color fluorescence analysis, is a new addition to this digital PCR series. This presentation will introduce the possibilities of expanding applications, focusing on assay data and practical examples using the QX600 Droplet Reader.

ZE5 Cell Analyzer
Flow cytometry is a widely used technique, and the automation of flow cytometers is becoming less and less difficult in recent years. Bio-Rad's high-performance flow cytometer is capable of advanced multiplex assays with up to five lasers and 27 fluorescence detectors. In addition, a second FSC with a 405 nm laser as a microparticle detector can be applied to the detection of single exosomes, which have been difficult to detect in the past. In this presentation, we will outline the features of the ZE5 Cell Analyzer, the latest high-performance flow cytometer, and introduce applications such as microparticle detection.

The latest imaging technology to capture and understand the truth of life phenomenon
Co-sponsored：Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd.

Chariperson
Akira Sato (Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd.)

Speaker
Junichi Kikuta (Graduate School of Medicine and Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University)

Speaker
Yasuhiko Sato (Carl Zeiss Co., Ltd.)

Detail

Recent advances in microscopy technology for high resolution, high speed etc. have been dramatically improving both quantity and quality of the image data we can obtain. On the other hand, whether the data reflect true biological phenomena is also an important argument at the heart of bioimaging. Therefore, "gentleness" is a critical element of imaging technology, but it is also a fact that it is often overlooked.
ZEISS has continued to develop the technology with an emphasis on gentleness in addition to factors such as resolution and speed.
In this presentation, we will introduce the latest laser microscopy technology and its research case studies that enable faster, finer, and gentler imaging.

Frontiers in Robot x NGS
Co-sponsored：Robotic Biology Institute Inc.

Speaker
Itoshi NIKAIDO
(Tokyo Medical and Dental U. / RIKEN)

Speaker
Masafumi MURATANI (U. Tsukuba)

Speaker
Haruka OZAKI (U. Tsukuba)

Detail

NGS, which is now a commodity, will take off even further by combining it with robots. In this seminar, we will introduce examples of the combination of NGS and LabDroid Maholo, a versatile humanoid robot developed by RBI, and discuss how this combination accelerates life science.

Roles of tight junctions in epithelial homeostasis
Co-sponsored：NIKON SOLUTIONS Co., Ltd.

Chairperson
Atsushi Tsurumune (NIKON SOLUTIONS Co., Ltd.)

Speaker
Roles of tight junctions in epithelial homeostasis
Tetsuhisa Otani
(Division of Cell Structure, National Institute for Physiological Sciences)

Speaker
Applications of advanced confocal microcopy
Tadayoshi Ogura (NIKON SOLUTIONS Co., Ltd.)

Detail

Epithelia form a sheet that covers our entire body surface and acts as a barrier to segregate the internal body from the external environment. Tight junctions seal the intercellular space and are essential for epithelial barrier function. On the other hand, epithelia directly contact the external environment and are exposed to various stress, which may lead to epithelial barrier dysfunction. It is reasonable to assume that a mechanism exists to regulate epithelial barrier homeostasis, although the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We have been analyzing the molecular organization of tight junctions by comprehensive loss-of-function analysis using genome editing. Recently, live imaging analysis is beginning to uncover the unexpected roles of tight junctions in epithelial homeostasis.

Translate your vector from reserach to therapy
Co-sponsored：VectorBuilder Inc.

Moderator
Shoko Nishimura (VectorBuilder Inc.)

Speaker
Generatoin of Gene-modified Immune Cells From Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells For Adoptive Immunotherapy
Shoichi Iriguchi
(Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University)

Speaker
VectorBuilder in Japan: make research more efficient and genetic medicine more effective and affordable
Miho Matakatsu
(VectorBuilder Inc. Director of Japan Market)

Detail

Cell therapies and organ transplantations utilizing somatic cells, tissues and organs regenerated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) are expected to provide novel therapeutics against a wide variety of diseases. To date, some cells and tissues generated from iPS cells have already reached to the clinical trials. The ability of iPS cells to self renew itself while maintaining pluripotency makes them an ideal platform to conduct genome editing and gene modification by virus vectors because they can cultivate from a single-cell in culture. In-depth analyses of genome sequences and karyotypes of the clonally isolated gene-modified iPS cells will allow us to assess potential risk of carcinogenesis as results of off-target cleavages or insertional mutagenesis inherited to gene modifications. These unique features have led us to develop an integrated platform to generate a large number of gene-modified immune cells from iPS cells for treatment of a cohort of patients. In this seminar, I would like to describe strategies to supply gene-modified functional T cells from iPS cells and to discuss the future perspectives.

VectorBuilder is a rapidly growing biotechnology company specializing in advanced genetic engineering solutions for research and medicine. We recently announced the construction of a new R&D and manufacturing center will include a state-of-the-art CDMO facility with 30 production suites, designed for cGMP manufacturing of various vectors. While traditional manufacturing technologies lack the cost-effectiveness and scalability, however we are different. In this short Luncheon seminar, I will give our aim to maximize customers’ performance and commercial success.

Application examples of label-free 3D imaging and introduction of new products.
Co-sponsored：SHINKO SEIKI Co., LTD.

Chairperson
Takahiro Muraoka (Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology)

Speaker
Application for observing biological phase separation using refractive index
Masaki Okumura (Tohoku University)

Speaker
Made by Tomocube, Product introduction and new product announcement of holographic microscope system
Takaki Ushifusa (SHINKO SEIKI Co., LTD.)

Detail

Introducing new products and applications. Extensive studies on biological phase separation have performed, but much remains unknown, such as real-time observation of phase separation, surface structure, and condensation process of target molecules. This unique microscope is based on the refractive index. The use of this device may be useful for understanding the phase separation phenomenon in vitro, and I will introduce the latest findings on this seminer.

Synaptic Nanostructure Revealed by Expanding Specimens
Co-sponsored：EVIDENT CORPORATION

Chairperson
Yuichiro Imai（EVIDENT CORPORATION）

Speaker
Synaptic Nanostructure Revealed by Expanding Specimens
Michisuke Yuzaki
（Department of Physiology, Keio University School of Medicine）

#WeMakeDNA - Approach to Functional Screening with Synthetic Biology
Co-sponsored：Twist Bioscience

Chairperson
Masanori Noguchi (Twist Bioscience)

Speaker
Identification of functional antibodies from immune repertoire sequencing of human tumors.
Shumpei Ishikawa
(The University of Tokyo, Graduate School of Medicine)

Speaker
Kazuki Kaneshiro (Twist Bioscience)

Detail

Seminar title： Identification of Functional Antibodies from Immunorepatent Sequence of Human Tumors
To make our seminar even more engaging, we will be offering pre-registration for all webinar attendees. We will be offering 200 Starbucks eGift (drink tickets) to those who register.
Please register using the following form on our website:
https://pages.twistbioscience.com/MBSJ2022_Seminar.html
We look forward to your registration.
[Contact us] E-mail: jsalescustomer@twistbioscience.com

A New Approach to Protein Analysis Using NaoLuc Luminescence Technology
Co-sponsored：Promega KK

Speaker
A New Approach to Protein Analysis Using Luminescence Technology
Ngan Lam（Promega Corporation, Senior Research Scientist）

Detail

Proteins form higher-order structures and their properties vary depending on conditions, so various analytical approaches are taken depending on the purpose of the experiment. Due to the complexity of proteins, analytical methods can be complicated and require expensive specialized analyzers. Promega has developed a number of protein analysis methods using NanoLuc(R), a compact luminescent enzyme, which can analyze the movement of proteins in cells, which was difficult to do in the past, and also provide technologies that dramatically simplify complicated protein immunoassays. These analytical methods can be easily measured with a plate reader/luminometer, which is commonly used in biotechnology laboratories today.

TBA
Co-sponsored：MAB Institute, Inc.

Speaker
Yamagata Kazuo (Kindai University, BOST)

Flexible and robust sequencing library preparation for SMART-Seq
Co-sponsored：TAKARA BIO INC.

Chairperson
Koichi Inoue (TAKARA BIO INC.)

Speaker
Andrew Farmer (Takara Bio USA, Inc.)

Detail

Takara’s family of SMART-Seq kits provide the greatest sensitivity among commercial and homebrew methods for generating NGS library for RNA-Seq. Here we will introduce our recently launched SMART-Seq mRNA LP (with UMIs) Kit and SMART-Seq Human BCR&TCR (with UMIs) .

LC/MS/MS-based multicomponent analysis and a support tool for data interpretation
Co-sponsored：Shimadzu Corporation

Chairperson
Jun Watanabe (Shimadzu Corporation)

Speaker
Introduction of the LC/MS/MS Cell Culture Profiling System
Kuzuhara Yuki (Shimadzu Corporation)

Speaker
Understanding molecular mechanisms in cell culture data using keyword recommendation based on article headings.
Yohei Yamada (Shimadzu Corporation)

Detail

Large amounts of data can be obtained with the improvement of analytical instruments. It has been recognized as a new bottleneck how do we interpret huge amounts of data.
Shimadzu offers method packages that were optimized and ready-to-use LC/MS/MS method for a particular application. We also develop a data interpretation tools for omics data.
We will present a case study in which we recommended keywords that are useful for understanding the molecular mechanisms of abnormal situations in cell culture.

Revolutionize your gene delivery technology
Co-sponsored：VectorBuilder Inc.

Chairperson
Miho Matakatsu
(VectorBuilder Inc. Director of Japam Market)

Speaker
Gene therapy and challenges with AAV vectors
Takashi Okada
(Center for Gene and Cell Therapy, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo)

Speaker
VectorBuilder's Gene Therapy viral vector CDMO service
Cole Cheng
（VectorBuilder Inc. Application Scientist ）

Detail

The development of gene therapy products for intractable hereditary diseases has received a great deal of attention due to its clear mechanism of action and clinical effects based on molecular pathology. Gene-introduced cells that utilize lentiviral vectors and AAV vectors have been launched mainly in Europe and the United States, but since the supply chain and manufacturing process intellectual property depend on Europe and the United States, corporate acquisitions and alliances are progressing in Japan as well.
Whereas continuous analysis and automatic control in the manufacturing process based on the concept of Quality by Design are becoming more important, the number of researchers and manufacturers involved in the development of basic technology is limited in Japan. The FDA's manufacturing guidelines emphasize the concept of antibody drugs in the items related to Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Control, and it is expected that Japanese regulations will follow that policy. Behind this, various safety concerns have been raised in clinical trials of gene therapy for hereditary diseases. In particular, in the case of high-dose systemic administration of AAV vector, concerns about major organ damage, neuropathy and carcinogenicity were pointed out in non-clinical and clinical trials, and cases of death were reported. Toward full-scale spread of gene therapy products, productivity and safety of vectors in terms of manufacturing, as well as the administration protocol to reduce the dose of vectors would be improved.

VectorBuilder has extensive expertise in producing many different types of viral vectors. We offer the flexibility of multiple production methods to help you decide which process will best meet your needs. We have established and validated platform technologies for scalable GMP manufacturing of adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lentivirus. In this Luncheon seminar, I will introduce our state-of-the-art facilities and capabilities, as well as how our GMP process development team can ensure your projects meet regulatory requirements with reasonable costs and high-quality standards.

Latest information on disease genome analysis and defense technology for medical security
Co-sponsored：SHINKO SEIKI Co., LTD.

Chairperson
Katsushi Tokunaga
（National Center for Global Health and Medicin）

Speaker
Interpretation and practice of variants resulting from comprehensive genomic analysis to find causative variant(s) in genetic diseases.
Tadashi Kaname
(National Center for Child Health and Development)

Speaker
Quantum-Resistant Cryptography and Medical Applications.
Takatoshi Nakamura
(Research Institute of Information Security)

Detail

With the spread of next-generation sequencers, comprehensive genome analyses have been conducted in various organisms. In particular, for rare diseases in human (about 80% of which are genetic diseases), comprehensive genome analysis is being conducted in many countries to investigate the causes of the diseases. However, individual diversity is large, with at least 100 000 variants detected in whole exome sequencing and 2M in whole genome sequencing, are detected in each individual. Of these, it is estimated that only one to a few variants are significantly involved in disease (causation), requiring a great deal of effort to narrow down. And to find them correctly, accurate interpretation of variants is essential. Data based on actual rare disease practice (information) and experience in analysis are also important. We present examples of analysis and implementation of the pipeline we are building, which combines prediction programmes, machine learning, internal data and others.
Part 2 "Medical application of complete encryption technology" In recent years, the development of quantum computers has been remarkable, and the threat to "cryptography," which is the key to information security, has become a reality.
Most cryptographic technologies are based on "computational security", which means that even if the fastest computer currently available is used, it will take more than a million years to decipher the code, and therefore, the strength of the code has been shown to be secure. However, once quantum computers are realized, it is expected that they will be deciphered in less than one second, rendering the current information security meaningless. As a result, the secret storage of information, secret communication, and remote authentication, will become impossible, which will not only affect communications (including the Internet), transportation, and power grids, but also diplomacy and defense. The development status of quantum computer resistant cryptography as a countermeasure, the only one that can counter the threat of quantum computers, and ""complete cipher"" as the final solution will be introduced, and the necessity of utilizing it in the field of medicine will be proposed.

Biotechnology Short Seminar

An Encouragement of K_D Studies
Co-sponsored：Cytiva

Chairperson
Mitani Tomoya (Cytiva)

Speaker
Satoru Nagatoishi
(The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo)

Detail

All researchers know the importance of accurately evaluating the activity of a molecule when a new ligand, protein, etc., is discovered.
When the targeted activity is obtained, the fact that the molecule is acting on the expected target molecule cannot be ignored when taking a POC.
The strength of this activity is expressed in terms of concentration, and typical "active concentration" values include IC₅₀ and EC₅₀ values.
Do these values really mean that they are acting on the target molecule? Are you also evaluating the "K_D value"? In this seminar, I will outline what "K_D values" are and why they are necessary.

No more restriction about restriction enzymes!
Start with easy and convenient seamless cloning.
Co-sponsored：New England Biolabs Japan Inc.

Chairperson
Yohei Hanazaki (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.）

Speaker
No more restriction about restriction enzymes!
Start with easy and convenient seamless cloning.
Naoki Yoshida (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.)

Speaker
NEBuilder Assembly applications and Tips for success
Kumiko Oi (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.)

Detail

In The First half, we will explain seamless cloning in comparison with cloning using common restriction enzymes and ligases.
・What is seamless cloning? ・How is it different from traditional cloning?
In the second half of the presentation, we will introduce NEBuilder Assembly which is an advanced version of Giboson Assembly, with applications. NEBuilder is the best assembly kit in application variety and performance.This is a must-see for all cloning users including those who use the equivalent product or traditional cloning with restriction enzymes and ligases.
・Introducing application examples ・Tips for successful seamless cloning experiments with NEBuilder

Venture Capitalist's Ideal Model for Future Biotech Startups
Co-sponsored：Shinsei Capital Partners, Ltd.

Speaker
Tetsuya Kurihara (Shinsei Capital Partners, Ltd.)

Detail

A venture capitalist specializing in life science will talk about the reality of biotech startups in Japan and the structure of university-launched startups from his unique perspective, based on a book he is currently writing. The talk will be useful not only for medical and pharmaceutical researchers, but also for investors and pharmaceutical companies. He will also answer questions from the audience.

Don't be afraid of NGS! Start your library preparation with NEBNext.
Co-sponsored：New England Biolabs Japan Inc.

Chairperson
Naoki Yoshida (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.)

Speaker
Don't be afraid of NGS! Start your library preparation with NEBNext.
Yohei Hanazaki (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.)

Speaker
Library Preparation and Tips for Success
Yohei Hanazaki (New England Biolabs Japan Inc.)

Detail

In the first half, we will explain the basics of NGS, which is a hot topic these days, and the contents of library preparation in a gentle and detailed manner for those who are just starting out.
・How to sequence with NGS? ・What is library preparation? In the second half, the secrets of library preparation will be presented in one place! This is a must-see for both those who are already preparing libraries and those who are just starting out.
・What is the most important thing in library preparation? ・Product introduction with specific examples ・Introduction of Tech Support ・Frequently asked questions and answers

CUT&RUN, a novel technology to analyze protein-DNA interactions
Co-sponsored：Cell Signaling Technology Japan, K.K.

Chairperson
Yuri Kouda (Cell Signaling Technology Japan, K.K.)

Speaker
Tomoyasu Isobe (Cell Signaling Technology Japan, K.K.)

Detail

CUT&RUN is a recently developed technology for mapping protein-DNA interactions that has advantages over ChIP, including a smaller number of cells required, less time-consuming for the experiment, and much lower background.
Epigenetic regulation of gene expression, DNA replication, and DNA repair play important roles in various biological processes including control of cell development, differentiation, senescence, and are also involved in human diseases such as cancer and metabolic diseases. For a better understanding of these processes, analysis of chromatin binding proteins is essential.
In this seminar, we will introduce actual data obtained by CUT&RUN and describe the principle and features of this system.