In recent years, rapid research advances have been made with in vitro embryo models that mimic a fertilized egg (embryo) from animal and human embryonic stem cells (ESC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC).

Cutting-edge biomedical science —— including iPS cell research —— unveils the many mysteries shrouding life itself and uses that emerging knowledge to benefit humankind through advances in modern medicine.

The photos on this page show places in Kyoto City where the “ena” of two historical figures were buried according to legend.

In recent years, the importance of early postmortem tissue samples for biological and medical research has increased due to the advances in the technology of genetic analysis.

Science and society have always had an essential relationship, and with science advancing at a more rapid pace, the need and opportunity for dialogue between the two has increased.

With the coronavirus pandemic, you may have seen the term ‘unproven/unapproved’ more often in news reports about therapeutic drugs and vaccines. However, we may need to consider what exactly ‘unproven/unapproved’ treatment means.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how much discord there is in the public about science. Disagreements about masks, social distancing and vaccines have led to massive protests and even violence. Yet a recent global survey by 3M found that people's confidence in science has actually improved compared to before the pandemic.

This past May, the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) revised its guidelines for the first time in five years. Among the changes was a relaxation of the “14-day rule,” which prohibits a human embryo from being cultured past 14 days.

At least once every year, the Uehiro Research Division for iPS Cell Ethics visits junior high schools to directly teach students about iPS cells. (Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been conducting these events remotely.) These programs include lessons on the basic science, but they also include discussions on relevant ethical issues.

The publication of peer-reviewed papers is the primary way through which scientists publicly share their research findings. Before this happens, other experts will review the paper and decide whether the paper should be published (i.e. peer review).