Pear trees are self-incompatible and need artificial pollination. A group at NARO’s Institute of Fruit Tree Science has succeeded to generate a self-pollinating pear variety, using breeding experiments on gamma-irradiated cultivars. NARO press release, Jan. 30, 2015
Amino-Up Chemical obtains GRAS status for Hokkaido asparagus extract (ETAS) as anti-stress agent
A „self-affirmed GRAS status“ was obtained by US FDA for enzymatically active extracts of Hokkaido asparagus (ETAS) which, if added to drinks or food, acts as an anti-stress agent due to enhanced expression of heat shock protein HSP70. Amino-Up press release, Jan. 30, 2015
The Japan Prize 2015 goes to Theodore Friedmann (USDA San Diego), Alain Fischer (Collège de France, Imagine Institute) and Yutaka Takahashi (University of Tokyo)
Theodore Friedmann is credited with originating the concept of gene therapy in the 1970ies and doing fundamental research since in this field. Alain Fischer demonstrated the clinical efficacy of gene therapy for the first time, using blood stem cells to treat a fatal genetic disorder called X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency. Yutaka Takahashi, a professor emeritus […]
iCell and University of Tokyo file basic patent for fabricating an organ from iPS and ES cells
The technology was developed in the Nakauchi ERATO project by Professor Hiromitsu Nakauchim now at Stanford University, who is also an inventor on this patent. Nikkei Biotech news release, Jan. 29, 2015
Eiken Chemical Co. introduces point-of-care genetic testing analyzer, 6 – 96 samples, 30 min to results including DNA extraction
The system is based on a proprietary „loop-mediated isothermal amplification“ procedure (LAMP) located on a chip. Diagnostic targets are multiple respiratory infections caused by microorganisms, various infectious diseases, companion diagnostic tests and the development of various cancer-related test chips. Eiken press release, Jan. 27, 2015
Kirin Bio gets clearance for L-hydroxyprolin production using recombinant technology
The Food Safety Commission of MHLW cleared the production process for this food and cosmetic additive in view of a process which leads to a highly purified product. Nikkei Biotech news release, Jan. 28, 2015
Seiren Co., a textile and electronic parts producer, will develop sericin into a cosmetic agent
Sericin, the cocoon protein of silkworms, has been found by Seiren to exhibit cryopreservation and anti-aging effects. Seiren announced that it will consider business development in these areas. Seiren website, Nikkei Biotech news Jan. 27, 2015
Shimadzu Co. launches Nexera UC, a completely automated supercritical fluid extraction and chromatography system
The new equipment, which will be introduced at PittCon 2015, allows for the simultaneous automatized extraction and analysis of up to 48 samples. 500 different types of pesticides were detected in < 1 hr using this system. The equipment was developed jointly with Osaka University and others. Shimadzu press release, Jan. 27, 2015
3D-Matrix takes license from MIT for improved method of self-assembling peptide preparations
3D-Matrix holds a license from MIT for the production of PuraMatrixTM, a hydrogel composed of repeating units of arg-ala-asp-ala in aqueous solution. The peptide self-assembles into nanofibers on a scale similar to the extracellular matrix when exposed to physiological salt concentrations, forming a flowable hydrogel. 3D-Matrix reports to have taken another license from MIT which […]
Shonan Kamakura General Hospital starts offering plastic surgery based on autologous adipose-tissue derived mesenchymal progenitor cells
After over one year clinical studies on several female cancer patients with breast surgery, the method was classified into risk-group III (lowest risk), and a review committee was established which surveys the selection of patients and the process of therapy, according to Japanese regulations. Nikkei Biotech news release, Jan 26, 2015