At the most recent meeting of the Japan Society for Regenerative Medicine last March, we conducted a discussion about how researchers in the field are communicating their findings to the general public. It is increasingly clear that there exists disconnect between the two groups. Scientists are primarily concerned with conveying their results, which involves explaining complex ideas in a manner that can be grasped by the wider public. The public itself, however, is more interested in understanding how regenerative medicine will impact society at the daily level.

This past January, Japan approved of new policy that considers the relationship between science and technology and society along with promoting new science and technology innovations. Recognizing the importance of strong and sustained public support, the policy puts emphasis on communication. However, as I alluded to above, the content of the communication will need to be adjusted in order to satisfy the information the public demands.

Japan’s attention to regenerative medicine took a significant leap in 2013 with new laws. The Pharmaceutical Affairs Law aims to expedite the development of regenerative medicine by putting an emphasis on safety, whereas beforehand translation from the bench to the clinic was viewed as exceptionally slow. Importantly, the law was revised to expand the regulations that applied to medicines and medical equipment to cellular and genetic therapeutic products as well. These changes have garnered large attention around the world and have made Japan an interesting case study to see how regenerative medicine proceeds compared with other nations. However, the emphasis on communication indicates the need for establishing good relations and trust with the public regardless of the scientific outcomes.

Associate Professor Yoshimi Yashiro, Uehiro Research Division for iPS Cell Ethics