Life Science

Kanazawa University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor KAWASAKI, Hiroshi	Commercialization of a Drug Discovery Screening Platform Using an Ferret Brain Tumor Model
	Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor with a poor prognosis, and the development of new therapeutic approaches remains an urgent unmet need. This project aims to establish a highly translational preclinical drug evaluation platform based on proprietary glioblastoma models and launch a startup.
Assistant Professor KOHNO, Susumu	Development of Novel Small-Molecule Therapeutics for SUCLA2-Deficient Cancers
	This project aims to develop novel small-molecule therapeutics that target the metabolic vulnerabilities of RB1/SUCLA2 co-deleted prostate cancer. Through structure optimization and preclinical efficacy and safety studies, the project seeks to identify a clinical candidate for further development.
Professor NAKAMURA, Takashi	Platform Technology for Cell Subset-Specific Targeting
	Disease-associated cell subsets are promising therapeutic targets, yet technologies for their selective targeting remain limited. This project aims to commercialize our proprietary cell subset-targeting platform and accelerate the development of innovative nanomedicines.
Associate Professor NAKAYAMA, Takahiro	Commercialization of a foundational technology for high-precision, high-sensitivity bioassays based on high-density oriented control of antibody molecules
	Random immobilization of antibodies often reduces their functional performance. This project aims to develop a technology that enables highly oriented and high-density antibody immobilization at solid–liquid interfaces by miniaturizing an antibody-binding protein, thereby improving the efficiency of purification resins and diagnostic devices.

University of Toyama

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Lecturer OHISHI, Yuki	Business Development of Rotaxane-type Drugs for Cancer Phototherapy with Low Side Effects
	This project aims to commercialize rotaxane-type photosensitizers as novel drug seeds for photodynamic therapy. By demonstrating the efficacy and safety of newly developed rotaxane-type photosensitizers, the project will establish the scientific and commercial feasibility required to advance this drug seed to non-clinical development.
Specially Appointed Professor OSHIMA, Yusuke	Commercialization of a Raman Spectroscopy System for Minimally Invasive Medicine
	This project aims to establish a startup to develop and commercialize Raman spectroscopy systems for medical applications. By leveraging Raman spectroscopy to identify molecular signatures from scattered laser light, the technology enables minimally invasive intraoperative diagnosis and early disease detection.
Lecturer SHITAOKA, Kiyomi	Rapid Diagnostics and Therapeutics for Infant Parechovirus Infections Using Single B Cell-Based Human Antibody Generation Technology.
	Our human antibody generation technology enables the rapid isolation of full-length antibody genes and evaluation of antibody specificity. Using this technology, this project develops rapid diagnostics and therapeutics for parechovirus infections that cause severe illness in infants.
Professor TABATA, Toshihide	EV-SELEX drug discovery services for quick development of challenging therapeutics
	Our new EV-SELEX method can create DNA aptamer therapeutics targeting G protein-coupled receptors,an important class of drug targets, reducing development time and cost to ~1/100 compared with conventional methods.Our goal is to launch a contract drug discovery services based on EV-SELEX.
Professor TSUNEKI, Hiroshi	Development of a novel healthy sleep-promoting drug
	Healthy sleep is essential for overall well-being. This project aims to develop a novel therapeutic for insomnia by leveraging an endogenous sleep-promoting molecule derived from a neuropeptide in orexin neurons, which regulate the sleep–wake cycle. The therapy is designed to promote natural sleep while maintaining a high level of safety.
Clinical Associate Professor NAKAOKA, Hideyuki	Development of a Novel microRNA Biomarker-Based System for the Early Diagnosis of Intravenous Immunoglobulin-Resistant Kawasaki Disease: A Therapeutic Strategy for Preventing Coronary Artery Aneurysms
	This technology is a novel molecular diagnostic platform that uses extracellular vesicle (EV)-derived microRNAs from patients with acute Kawasaki disease to accurately predict intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance. The rapid diagnostic system enables early identification of refractory cases and supports selection of optimal treatment strategies.

Komatsu University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor YAMAOKA, Tetsuji	Translational Development of Intelligent Ultrathin Coating Materials for Protecting and Repairing Damaged Tissue Surfaces
	This project aims to develop a novel sprayable protective coating for injured tissues and organs. The coating undergoes a sol–gel phase transition upon contact with tissues exhibiting reduced glucose concentrations (Japanese Patent No. 6,954,529). This technology has potential applications as a postoperative anti-adhesion barrier and as an ophthalmic formulation for the treatment of dry eye disease.

Kanazawa Institute of Technology

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor KINDO, Toshiki	Commercialization of the ADVISE pathology diagnosis support system
	This project aims to commercialize a pathology diagnostic support system that reduces pathologists' diagnostic time to less than one-tenth of current levels. By improving diagnostic efficiency, the technology addresses the shortage of pathologists and the associated societal challenges, including excessive workload, diagnostic delays, and increased risks of medical errors.

Kanazawa Medical University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Lecturer SAKAMOTO, Takuya	From “Cells” to the “Microenvironment”: Artificial Synovial Fluid (ASF) as a Platform for Next-Generation Cell Therapy
	This project aims to develop an artificial synovial fluid for cell therapies targeting knee osteoarthritis. By preventing environmental stress-induced damage to therapeutic cells during manufacturing, it seeks to improve therapeutic efficacy and facilitate commercialization.

Hokuriku University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor TAKAHASHI, Tatsuo	Strategic Commercialization and Pipeline Development of Liquiritigenin for Osteoarthritis Prevention and Treatment
	This project aims to advance the commercialization of liquiritigenin-based disease-modifying therapeutics and preventive products for osteoarthritis. Leveraging the dual functions of liquiritigenin in promoting cartilage regeneration and suppressing inflammation, the project will validate its efficacy and safety while refining a commercialization strategy.

Technology, Environment

Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST)

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor UNOKI, Masashi	Advancement of speech communication support utilizing bone conduction technology
	While bone conduction technology enables sound transmission without blocking the ears, it often compromises sound quality and speech intelligibility. This project aims to address these challenges by developing a core technology that advances speech communication using bone conduction.
Professor OHDAIRA, Keisuke	Cat-CVD-Based Platform Business for Contract Manufacturing of High-Performance Thin Films
	This project aims to establish an innovative platform business that provides contract manufacturing services for high-performance thin films using catalytic chemical vapor deposition (Cat-CVD), a low-temperature, low-damage deposition technology. The platform is intended to serve the semiconductor and next-generation solar cell industries.
Professor TAKAMURA, Yuzuru	Application of physical reservoir computing using solid electrolyte gate transistors
	This project aims to develop a physical reservoir computing platform based on proprietary solid electrolyte gate transistors and advance its practical application. By leveraging the advantages of physical reservoir computing, the technology has the potential to significantly reduce computational requirements for machine learning and prediction tasks.
Doctoral Course NINOMIYA, Masaya	Water evaporation-induced repeated opening and closing of parallel microchannels.
	This project aims to develop a technology that generates periodic patterns in parallel microchannels through capillary force during the drying of polymer dispersions. Driven by water evaporation, the system provides an environmentally friendly method with minimal impact on both human health and the environment.

Kanazawa University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor ASAKAWA, Hitoshi	High-efficiency innovation platform for functional materials and devices
	Based on two core technologies, an integrated experimental substrate and an automated evaluation system, the platform provides high-quality experimental data acquisition and analysis services and supports the commercialization of the equipment and substrates.
Associate Professor TSUGE, Yota	Production of a retinal cocktail for skincare through precision fermentation
	This project aims to develop a retinal cocktail using precision fermentation. By co-producing retinal, known for its anti-aging properties, together with other bioactive compounds, the project seeks to commercialize the resulting cocktail as a high-value skincare ingredient.
Assistant Professor YONEZAWA, Hirotaka	Development of a Novel Bone-Cutting Instrument for Orthopaedic Surgery
	Bone cutting in orthopaedic surgery has a significant impact on postoperative outcomes and bone healing. Existing instruments have limitations, including the width of the bone cut, operability, and surgeon workload. This project aims to develop a novel bone-cutting instrument that offers superior cutting precision, reproducibility, and procedural efficiency.
Professor WATANABE, Tetsuyou	Toward Practical Motion Assistance Based on Light-Touch Guidance: Making Movement Easier
	This project aims to commercialize a waist-belt motion assistance device that uses light-touch stimulation to naturally facilitate standing movements. Designed for individuals with knee or lower back discomfort and those in the early stages of needing support or long-term care, the technology helps people who are physically capable of standing but lack confidence perform everyday movements more easily and independently.

University of Toyama

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor ABE, Takayuki	Business development of new clean-hydrogen production technology
	This project aims to commercialize a novel clean-hydrogen production technology that utilizes low-temperature waste heat (approximately 150°C) and advanced nanomaterials to generate hydrogen from water vapor, helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions, a major contributor to global warming.
Associate Professor OMURA, Masaaki	Development of a Device-Agnostic AI Platform for Ultrasound Diagnosis
	This project aims to develop a multi-vendor AI platform for ultrasound diagnosis based on proprietary vascular segmentation technology and signal processing that compensates for differences among ultrasound devices. Starting with venous thrombosis, the platform will support diagnostic assistance and training for non-expert users.
Assistant Professor KAMIHARA, Yusuke	Development of Visualization and Expert Panel Support Software for Hematologic Malignancy Genetic Panel Testing
	This project aims to develop a SaaS solution for healthcare institutions that integrates and visualizes results from genetic panel testing for hematologic malignancies. By streamlining preparation for expert panel discussions, the technology improves the efficiency of clinical workflows.

University of Fukui

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor ASANO, Takayuki	Microwave Selective Heating for Sustainable Resource Creation - Toward the Commercialization of Value-Added Resources from Agricultural Residues -
	Leveraging microwave technology to convert agricultural residues into value-added resources, this project aims to reduce environmental impact and promote a regional circular economy. The project will demonstrate the feasibility of decentralized resource recycling systems tailored to agricultural communities and support the creation of new industries.

Fukui Prefectural University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor HIBI, Takao	Development and Commercialization of Natural Cheese to Improve Sleep Quality and Gut Microbiota
	This project aims to develop a novel functional natural cheese containing a plant-derived lactic acid bacterial strain originally isolated from Fukui-grown buckwheat. Designed to deliver viable beneficial bacteria to the gut, the cheese has the potential to support sleep quality and gut health. The project will scientifically validate the strain's physiological benefits and clarify its mechanisms of action, providing the evidence needed to establish a differentiated functional food for commercialization.

National Institute of Technology, Fukui College

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Assistant Professor FUKUSHIMA, Hiroyuki	Realization of Plant Factories with Low-Cost and High-Efficiency Growth Using Red Emission from Mn Phosphors
	This project aims to maximize the productivity and quality of plant factories by advancing lighting technologies for controlled-environment agriculture. Using blue LEDs and red-emitting phosphors, the project seeks to enhance photosynthesis, improve nutritional value, and optimize plant growth, thereby enabling the development of high-value crops.

Social Impact

Kanazawa University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Associate Professor OSAKA, Yugo	Development of a Heat Demand Visualization System by a Non-Invasive Virtual Plant for the Manufacturing Industry
	This project develops a non-invasive virtual plant simulator that uses operational data from manufacturing facilities to visualize heat demand. By making factory heat use visible, it supports small and medium-sized manufacturers in improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, which contributes to more sustainable manufacturing.
Assistant Professor HARASHIMA, Ai	Development of High-Value Fermented Foods through the Quantification of an Anti-Glycation Functional Component Derived from Fermentation
	This project aims to quantify and visualize the health benefits of fermented foods based on our discovery of a novel anti-glycation function of a fermentation-derived functional component. Through evidence-based differentiation and value creation, the project seeks to create new business opportunities in the Hokuriku fermentation industry.
Assistant Professor MIZUKAMI, Kimiko	Supporting Those Who Care for Patients and Families: Developing an Organizational Support Model for Healthcare Professionals
	This project aims to develop a new support service for healthcare professionals experiencing psychological distress related to end-of-life care or responding to sudden deterioration in patients. This distress may manifest as grief and feelings of loss. The service promotes psychological safety in the workplace by encouraging healthcare professionals and their colleagues to recognise emotional distress early on and ensuring that those in need receive timely and appropriate support.
Professor YONEDA, Mitsugu	Visualizing Early Changes in Daily Living Functions Through Motion Analysis-Based Evaluation of Brain Predictive Circuits and Developing a Business Model to Extend Healthy Life Expectancy
	This project aims to evaluate the brain's predictive functions by analyzing daily movement patterns to visualize early signs of cognitive decline and other health risks. By leveraging smartphones and other devices, we develop and validate assessment models and provide them as APIs for insurance and healthcare applications. The project seeks to commercialize this technology as a non-medical preventive healthcare service.

Toyama Prefectural University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Assistant Professor KAWASAKI, Takafumi	Developing a Rapid Satellite Screening System for Natural Disaster Recovery
	This project aims to develop a satellite data–based screening system that automatically detects and identifies disaster-affected areas across wide regions, enabling rapid assessment following natural disasters. By streamlining and improving the efficiency of traditional manual inspections, the system supports faster and more effective disaster recovery efforts.

Hokuriku University

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Professor OHATA, Koji	Development of a Robot-Assisted Telerehabilitation Platform to Improve Motor Function in People with Parkinson’s Disease
	This project aims to establish a startup providing remote, robot-assisted rehabilitation services that support the daily lives and motor function of people with Parkinson’s disease. A consortium of hospitals, patient organizations, robotics companies, and universities will work together to assess the commercial viability of the service.

National Institute of Technology, Toyama College

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Associate Professor MANAKA, atsushi	Commercialization of a Rapid and Ultra-Sensitive On-Site PFAS Screening System to Meet Strengthening Global Regulatory Demands
	This project aims to develop and commercialize a rapid analytical system for the environmental contaminant PFAS by integrating a proprietary droplet concentration method with a smartphone-based measurement system supported by a dedicated application. The technology is expected to provide a more user-friendly and cost-effective solution for on-site PFAS screening compared with conventional methods.

Kanazawa College of Art

Principal Investigator	Research Theme / Overview
Associate Professor KANESHIMA, Takahiro	"Art Practice in a Rich Rural Environment" — Building a Cultural Ecosystem That Contributes to the Local Community
	This project explores diverse forms of cultural ecosystems in rural environments through art practice in a traditional farmhouse on the Tonami Plain, collaborating with contemporary artists with whom previous curatorial relationships have been established, while respecting each artist's individual practice and collectively investigating how diverse cultural ecosystems may be cultivated through artistic practice in rural contexts.