About CiRA
About CiRA
Message from the Director
Koji Eto
Director, CiRA,
Kyoto University
Koji Eto
Director, CiRA,
Kyoto University
The Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto University, was established with the mission of realizing the medical applications of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells. Since its founding, CiRA has promoted integrated research spanning from basic science to clinical application. With the generous support of many stakeholders, iPS cell technology has made steady progress and continues to open new possibilities in medicine and life science.
Toward 2030, CiRA is advancing its research activities based on the following four goals:
CiRA Vision 2030
CiRA Vision 2030
1. Promote the iPS cell stock and iPS cell-based regenerative medicine
2. Develop drugs for intractable diseases and
personalized medicines using iPS cells
3. Create new frontiers in the life and medical
sciences using iPS cell technology
4. Provide an outstanding support environment
for excellent research and development
One of CiRA’s original major goals—the establishment of clinical-grade iPS cells—has already been achieved, and iPS cell–based research and development for cell therapies targeting various diseases is now actively underway. In March of this year, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare granted conditional, time limited approval for the manufacturing and marketing of an iPS cell–derived cellular product for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. This milestone represents a significant step toward delivering the advances of iPS cell research to society as practical medical treatments. In parallel, research using disease-specific iPS cells to uncover disease mechanisms and facilitate drug discovery continues to make steady progress.
At the same time, further advances in basic research and technological innovation are essential to ensure that iPS cell technologies can be delivered safely and reliably to a broader range of patients. Building on the knowledge gained from first-generation iPS cell research, the development of second- and third-generation iPS cells represents one of CiRA’s next major missions. In close collaboration with the CiRA Foundation, relevant organizations, and industry partners, CiRA will continue to promote the translation of research into clinical and real-world applications.
Beyond regenerative medicine, iPS cell technologies are also driving innovation in fundamental life sciences, including studies of development and aging, organoid research, and analyses of cellular, tissue, and inter-organ interactions. CiRA is committed to exploring these frontiers to deepen our understanding of the fundamental principles underlying life phenomena.
From April 2026, CiRA will move forward under a new organizational structure. Through this reorganization, we aim to further strengthen collaboration across research fields and to establish a research framework that seamlessly integrates basic research, clinical development, and social implementation, enabling us to respond flexibly and swiftly to an evolving research environment.
Guided by our strong commitment to delivering iPS cell–based therapies to patients as swiftly as possible, all members of CiRA will continue to devote themselves to research and support activities in pursuit of our mission. We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support.
