International Collaborative Research Administration (ICRA)

What is the International Collaborative Research Administration (ICRA)?

Juntendo University has concluded numerous MOUs with overseas universities to date. Based on this, on April 1, 2021, with the aim of strengthening collaboration with overseas universities, the International Collaborative Research Administration (ICRA) was established within the university, with President Hajime Arai (at the time) as its first director and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Hattori (at the time) as its first deputy director. In addition to the existing collaboration with Peking University, ICRA also began collaborations with Johns Hopkins University (JHU) and Vanderbilt University (VU) in the United States. Subsequently, comprehensive agreements were also obtained with the University of Pittsburgh, UC Davis, and Mahidol University (Thailand), and joint research has begun. President Daida, the second Director of the organization, aims to further strengthen the collaboration between Juntendo University and top-class overseas universities, build a solid international cooperation system that contributes to the university's research, disseminate and return the results to society, and contribute to academic research worldwide.

Director Hiroyuki Daida(President of Juntendo University)

Juntendo’s tradition of international exchange dates back to its third Director, Susumu Sato, who became the first Asian to study at the University of Berlin, holding Japan’s first official passport and earning a Doctor of Medicine degree. Since that time, Juntendo has valued a global perspective and the importance of mutual respect and learning across cultures.
Established in April 2021, the International Collaborative Research Organization carries forward this legacy. It actively promotes international joint research with leading institutions such as Peking University, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Pittsburgh, and Mahidol University in Thailand. Today, our collaborations extend beyond research exchange. We also dispatch students for clinical training at Johns Hopkins University, achieving meaningful outcomes in both education and research.
As of August 2025, Juntendo has established partnerships with 95 institutions across 29 countries and regions worldwide. Through the International Exchange Center as the central coordinating office, we welcome approximately 300 short-term trainees annually to our affiliated hospitals under the Clinical Observation Program.
Moving forward, we will continue to support the international activities of young researchers and students, striving to contribute to society as a comprehensive health sciences university.

Organizational Structure

ICRA

ICRA Position	Name	Juntendo University Affiliation	Projects / Programs
Director	Hiroyuki Daida	President
Vice Director	Kazuhisa Takahashi	Dean, Faculty of Medicine Professor of Respiratory Medicine
Deputy Director	Hajime Orita	Medical Education	Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Surgery Project
Professor	Yutaka Kondo	Faculty of Medicine, Emergency & Disaster Medicine	Harvard Program
Professor	Manabu Funayama	Research Institute for Diseases of Old Age	Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Neurology Project
Associate Professor	Takehiro Yasukawa	Faculty of Medicine, Molecular Pathogenesis	Overseas Exchange in Fundamental Research Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Oncology Project
Associate Professor	Keisuke Usui	Faculty of Health Science

ICRA Visiting Faculty

ICRA Position	Name	Institutions Affiliation	Project
Visiting Professor	Ryo Matoba	DNA Chip Research Institute, Inc.
Visiting Professor	Malcolm Brock	Johns Hopkins University	Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Oncology Project
Visiting Associate Professor	Errol Bush	Johns Hopkins University	Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Surgery Project
Visiting Associate Professor	Tina Kumra	Johns Hopkins University	Medical Interview Training Instructor

Juntendo University - Mahidol University ICRA Center

ICRA Position	Name	Juntendo University Affiliation
Center Head	Toshio Naito	Faculty of Medicine, General Medicine
Vice Center Head	Hirotake Mori	Faculty of Medicine, General Medicine

Juntendo University - Peking University ICRA Center

ICRA Position	Name	Juntendo University Affiliation
Center Head	Hiroshi Iwata	Faculty of Medicine, Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine

Partner Universities

Johns Hopkins University, USA
Mahidol University, Thailand
Peking University, China
University of California, Davis, USA
University of Pittsburgh, USA
Vanderbilt University, USA

Research Projects

Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Neurology Project

Elucidating the Link Between 22q11.2 Deletion and Parkinson’s Disease Through Patient Genomics and Nerve Biopsy Analysis

This neurology project investigates the relationship between the 22q11.2 deletion—the most common pathogenic chromosomal deletion—and Parkinson’s disease, the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease. By integrating patient genomic profiling with detailed analyses of peripheral nerve biopsies, the study aims to uncover molecular mechanisms shared by these two major neurological diseases and to identify targets for novel therapeutic development. Through the synergistic collaboration between Johns Hopkins University and Juntendo University, the project leverages the strengths of both institutions to generate impactful scientific advances.

PIs: Nobutaka Hattori, Akira Sawa

Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Oncology Project

Development of Therapeutic Strategies Targeting the Premetastatic Niche Using MDSCs as Biomarkers

(Demethylation Therapy for Recurrence and Peritoneal Dissemination Prevention After Curative Surgery for Advanced Gastric Cancer)

This study positions myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) as a key biomarker of the pre-metastatic tumor microenvironment. We aim to establish novel therapeutic strategies for the early detection and targeting of the pre-metastatic niche formed prior to metastasis. Furthermore, we seek to deepen our understanding of the interactions between cancer cells and various non-
malignant cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). By elucidating the mechanisms by which the TME induces resistance to anticancer drugs, we aim to translate these findings into clinical applications for treatment and diagnostic markers. In addition, we will strengthen our collaborative research and educational framework by facilitating the exchange of postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and undergraduates between the two institutions, thereby fostering the long-term advancement of cancer research.

PIs: Takehiro Yasukawa, Malcolm Brock

Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Pathology Project

Determining prenatal stress impact on placenta and fetal well-being

A fetal origin to various adult disease has been epidemiologically associated with prenatal stress in pregnant women. We determined that prenatal stress increased sensitivity to carcinogens and amplifies atherosclerosis in adult mice who were previously exposed to in utero stress. This study focuses on the stress period itself and the molecular response of the fetus and the placenta. This research aims to identify biomarkers in the blood. With stress biomarkers developed, stress reducing methods can be tested for translation to pregnant women for stress prevention.

PIs: Harumi Saeki, Kathleen Gabrielson

Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Pediatric Surgery Project

Investigation of Novel Risk Factors for Necrotizing Enterocolitis Through a Comparative Analysis of Cases Between Japan and the United States

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a life-threatening inflammatory intestinal disease that predominantly affects premature infants. In recent years, its increasing incidence has become a significant concern, and notable regional differences in prevalence have been recognized, although the underlying reasons remain unclear. In this study, a collaborative effort between Johns Hopkins University and Juntendo University will conduct a comprehensive comparative analysis focusing on differences in NEC incidence between Japan and the United States. The aim is to identify novel factors that promote or suppress the onset of NEC. Furthermore, by investigating the biological effects of these key candidate factors, we will evaluate their potential as future targets for prevention and therapeutic intervention.

PIs: Kazuto Suda, David Hackam

Johns Hopkins-Juntendo Surgery Project

International Evaluation of a Novel Cholangiocarcinoma Panel and Global Deployment of the Existing Lung Cancer Compact Panel

This study aims to validate the international utility of a newly developed cancer panel and to establish an implementation platform for the global deployment of the existing lung cancer compact panel. Building upon the high-precision compact panel technology developed by DNA Chip Research Inc., the project also seeks to expand this platform toward future applications, including early detection markers for transplant rejection and molecular panels tailored for xenotransplantation. Through these efforts, we aim to create a next-generation diagnostic platform applicable across a broad spectrum of clinical settings—from cancer diagnostics to transplant medicine.

PIs: Hajime Orita, Errol Bush

Pittsburgh-Juntendo Collaboration Project

Development of Regenerative Therapies Using Adult Stem Cells

This international collaborative project between the University of Pittsburgh and Juntendo University aims to develop regenerative therapies utilizing adult stem cells and related cellular technologies. At Juntendo University, we have developed ex vivo-expanded peripheral blood mononuclear cells (MNC-QQ cells/ RE-01 cells), which are cell population enriched in adult stem cells with excellent angiogenic and tissue-repair capacities. In this project, we utilize these cells to regulate adult stem cell differentiation, optimize the microenvironment that promotes tissue repair, and integrate these approaches with biomaterials. Through these efforts, we aim to establish innovative regenerative strategies for intractable diseases and facilitate their translation into clinical applications.

PIs: Rica Tanaka, J. Peter Rubin

UC Davis-Juntendo Collaboration Project

International Collaborative Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Induced Regulatory T Cells in U.S. Kidney Transplant Recipients

This international collaborative study aims to evaluate the safety and therapeutic efficacy of induced regulatory T cells (iTregs) in kidney transplant recipients in the United States. The project will comprehensively assess the extent to which iTregs suppress alloreactive immune responses, reduce the incidence of graft rejection, and potentially lessen the need for conventional immunosuppressive medications. Furthermore, by analyzing post-treatment immune dynamics and changes in graft function, the study seeks to establish optimal dosing strategies and clinical evaluation metrics to advance the clinical application of iTreg-based cell therapy.

PIs: Koichiro Uchida, Junichiro Sageshima

Vanderbilt-Juntendo Collaboration Project

Assessment of Nivolumab Sensitivity in Advanced Esophageal Cancer Using Single-Cell RNA Sequencing

This study aims to elucidate the molecular basis of Nivolumab sensitivity in advanced esophageal cancer through high-resolution single-cell RNA sequencing. By characterizing the heterogeneity of tumor and immune cell populations, including the functional states of exhausted T cells and features of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, the project seeks to identify specific cell subsets and pathways that determine therapeutic responsiveness. The ultimate goal is to develop novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets that enhance the efficacy of immune checkpoint blockade.

PIs: Motomi Nasu, Mike Gibson

Mahidol-Juntendo Collaboration Project

Japan–Thailand Collaborative Research on Infectious Diseases, Lifestyle-Related Diseases, and IT-Enabled Medical Education

This international collaborative project aims to comparatively analyze the current status of infectious diseases and lifestyle-related diseases in Japan and Thailand, identifying shared public health challenges and potential preventive strategies. In addition, the project will jointly develop IT-based remote medical education programs to enhance the quality of clinical training and strengthen healthcare workforce development. Through these academic collaborations, the initiative seeks to advance medical and educational systems in both countries and establish a sustainable foundation for long-term international partnership.

PIs: Toshio Naito, Hirotake Mori

Peking-Juntendo Collaboration Project

Pilot Awards

Development and validation of a novel combined cell therapy using injectable arterial vascular organoids (AVOs) and RE-01 cells for treating ischemic diseases. PIs: Rica Tanaka, WANG Kai
Investigating Regional Differences in Blood EPA Levels Among Secondary Prevention Patients with Atherosclerotic Diseases in Japan and China. PIs: Hiroshi Iwata, CUI Ming
Dissecting the TME of the pancreatic cancer organ specific metastases. PIs: Akio Saiura, MA Yongsu
Mimosa-inspired Curling Bioadhesive Promotes Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Through Vascular Reconstruction. PIs: Haruka Kaneko, ZHANG Peixun

Discovery Awards

Comparison of clinical characteristics, medicine use and kidney function progression among patients with diabetic kidney disease managed in tertiary hospitals between China and Japan. PIs: Yuichiro Yano, WANG Jinwei
Development of NRP2-Targeted ROS-Responsive Nanoprobes for Early Diagnosis and Therapy of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm. PIs: Yasutaka Yokoyama, LI Wei
Oral Frailty in Japan and China: Integrating Community Engagement with AI Technologies. PIs: Motoyuki Yuasa, YAO Yao
Study on the Role of Fibroblasts in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Associated Myocarditis. PIs: Akira Orimo, WENG Liang
Mechanistic Study on Artemisinin in Mitigating Multidimensional Cancer Risks in Obesity. PIs: Isao Naguro, PAN Yan
Pilot Study Protocol on Aortic Expansion Rate and Hemodynamic Parameters by 4D Flow MRI in Patients with Mildly Dilated Thoracic Aorta. PIs: Minoru Tabata, ZHANG Zhe

Overseas Clinical Training

2025

Our annual spring overseas clinical placements have also expanded in scope. Experiential placements are now offered at institutions beyond Johns Hopkins University (JHU), and below, we will introduce several of these programs. Furthermore, this year, three students from JHU—including one first-year medical student—participated in research programs at our university as Summer Students, further strengthening and invigorating our international exchange activities.

Harvard Medical School　

Program Overview
In 2024, we launched an overseas clinical training program for sixth-year medical students at Harvard Medical School’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) Emergency Department.
This program was made possible through the tremendous support of Dr. Kei Ouchi, Assistant Professor at Harvard Medical School. We sent two students last year, and this year we plan to send seven. We are currently sending the third group. The training at BWH provides a valuable learning experience, exposing students to cutting-edge American medicine and diverse cultures.

Koichiro Sueyoshi, MD, PhD
Associate Professor, Department of Emergency Medicine, Urayasu Hospital

Photo from left: Saya Uyama, Professor Kei Ouchi, Masayuki Narahara

Photo: At the entrance of Harvard Medical School

Johns Hopkins University

Student Reflection
During our clinical training at JHU, Masashi Takagi, Yuna Cha, and Kohei Nakamura studied in the Surgery Department; Yuta Kasai in the Cardiology Department; and Akira Ohno in the Radiology Department. The Surgery team experienced procedures rarely performed in Japan, such as lung and heart transplants, while the Cardiology team encountered highly specialized American-style clinical practice.

Photo: In front of the dormitory

In Radiology, we focused on studying diagnostic imaging, particularly in neuroradiology. While we were sometimes bewildered by various differences from Japan, such as the healthcare system, each day brought new learning, making it an extremely valuable experience. In addition, we gained precious memories, such as being taken to a crab restaurant, courtesy of visiting faculty members from the School of Nursing and Medical Sciences, including Dr. Jun Ueki and Dr. Shu Hirai. After returning home, we intend to continue our daily studies and also dedicate ourselves to studying medical English.

Akira Ohno
Sixth-Year Medical Student (M6)

Photo from left: Akira Ohno, Professor Jun Ueki, and fellow students studying abroad

Mayo Clinic

Student Reflection
During my rotation in the Department of Radiation Oncology at Mayo Clinic, I was deeply impressed by the patient-centered care system, in which multidisciplinary collaboration with surgical and medical oncology teams is routine. Outpatient visits allow approximately one hour per patient, with follow-ups lasting about 30 minutes, enabling thorough engagement and close communication. The collaborative approach, in which physicians, nurse practitioners, and other professionals work together as a unified team, also left a strong impression.

I participated in consultations with international patients, such as those from Saudi Arabia, through interpreters, experiencing firsthand the clinic’s diverse, global environment. During morning conferences, I was given the opportunity to present for 30 minutes, and the lively discussions provided valuable insights and learning opportunities. (This experience was made possible through the dedicated efforts of Dr. Anne Yuko Saito from the Department of Radiology at Urayasu Hospital.)

Ryoei Oshima
Sixth-Year Medical Student (M6)

Photo: Main entrance of Mayo Clinic

Photo: Ryoei Oshima (center) and Radiation Oncology staff

Minnesota University

Student Reflection
During my clinical rotation in the Pediatric Hematology Department at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital, I learned about hematologic malignancies and bone marrow transplants, as well as gene therapy for sickle cell disease and metabolic disorders, which are prevalent in Western countries.
What particularly stood out was being present when a physician had to inform a patient and their family that postoperative chemotherapy for osteosarcoma was not yielding favorable results. From the choice of words and the pauses, I learned about the physician’s sincere approach and how to engage with patients and their families.

Furthermore, as a high number of sickle cell patients had a history of asthma, my final presentation explored the relationship between sickle cell disease and asthma. This provided a valuable opportunity to discuss how questions arising from actual clinical practice can be applied to future medical care.

Kana Araki
Sixth-Year Medical Student (M6)

Photo from left: Kana Araki, Chang-hee Lee

Photo: Practicum Director Dr. Horeig and Kana Araki

Stanford University

Student Reflection
We participated in a clinical rotation at Stanford University’s Transplant Surgery Department, where 137 liver transplants were performed last year. We were able to observe numerous surgeries rarely seen in Japan within a short period, including liver transplants, kidney transplants, and procedures for post-transplant complications (such as hepatic artery dissection), making it an invaluable experience.

Beyond transplant surgery, we also toured the Sleep and Circadian Rhythms Laboratory and the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, broadening our horizons. Apart from surgery, our days on the ward were immensely fulfilling. We gained experience in charting, patient examinations, and presentations during rounds alongside outstanding Stanford University students. Receiving extensive feedback from the faculty greatly boosted our confidence.

Ayane Muto
Sixth-Year Medical Student (M6)

Photo from left: Ryoei Oshima, Ryota Nishihara, Ayane Muto, Ren Ishibashi

Johns Hopkins University Student Summer Research Program

Faculty Reflection
This program, in which JHU students visit Juntendo University to conduct research, is supported by the Sato-Ogawa Scholarship and marks its third year. This year, we welcomed three students: two undergraduates, Patrick Wu and Rebecca Wu, and Emma Giarracco, the first medical student to participate in this program. Emma conducted research under Professor Yoshifumi Tamura (Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Sports Medicine and Sportology), Patrick under Professor Hiroyuki Hioki (Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Neuroanatomy), and Rebecca under Associate Professor Yasukawa (Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Molecular Pathogenesis) for one to two months. They presented their research findings on campus on July 22. Rebecca, whom I supervised, impressed me with her intense focus on experiments despite being only a second-year undergraduate. I believe she greatly inspired the students in our department. This program provides Juntendo students with a valuable opportunity to learn the research mindset of students from top U.S. universities through collaborative activities.

Takehiro Yasukawa, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Pathology & Oncology

Photo: Campus tour of Sakura Campus with Professor Ishihara

Photo: Emma Giarracco’s progress during training

Emma Giarracco’s Reflection and YouTube Video

Photo: Patrick Wu, recipient of the certificate of completion

Photo: Rebecca with her colleagues and Dr. Yasukawa

Global Basic Research Program in JHU

Program Overview
The Global Basic Research Program at JHU, which began three years ago and became a formal program last year, had only one participant this year: Yurino Nakano. Associate Professor Yasukawa provided rigorous preparatory training for Nakano prior to departure to the U.S.

After approximately two months of research in Dr. Franck Housseau laboratory at Johns Hopkins University, Nakano returned with solid results. Furthermore, she assisted Dr. Yamauchi, a Juntendo medical doctor currently working as a post-doctoral fellow at JHU, contributing to another significant outcome. With generous support from senior colleagues, Prof. Malcolm Block, and Ms. Mayumi Shigeno (JHU nurse practitioner), it appears Nakano had a very fulfilling two months.

Photo: At Professor Housseau’s farewell party with laboratory members

Student Reflection
I was affiliated with the laboratory of Dr. Franck Housseau at Johns Hopkins University, where I conducted research in cancer immunology. Through interactions with researchers at Johns Hopkins, I was reminded of the importance of intellectual curiosity and the continuous pursuit of knowledge. Moreover, I appreciated the value of a global perspective in research. Moving forward, I hope to build on this experience not only in my research but also in my clinical practice, aspiring to become a physician who can contribute internationally. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for this extraordinary opportunity.

Yurino Nakano
Third-Year Medical Student (M3)

Photo: At a baseball game

Transplant Surgery Observation Program for Juntendo Resident in JHU

Program Overview
Dr. Kunitomi participated in the two-week observation program at Johns Hopkins University Transplant Surgery, which began in 2023. This program specifically opens its doors to young professionals who were unable to complete overseas clinical training during their student years. The program continues to evolve, and discussions to further accelerate mutual exchange are ongoing.

Photo: With a resident physician rotating in the transplant surgery department during the same period

Transplant Surgery Observation Program 1

Faculty Reflection
In May 2025, I spent two weeks at Johns Hopkins Hospital. My main focus was observing transplant surgery, especially liver and lung transplantation. For liver transplantation, I was able to observe not only living-donor liver transplants but also deceased-donor cases. I also saw a wide variety of operative approaches, including open surgery, mini-laparotomy, and robot-assisted surgery. Being exposed to such diverse surgical techniques was highly educational. For lung transplantation, I joined the organ procurement process, traveling from Johns Hopkins Hospital to Texas, about a two-hour flight away, to retrieve donor lungs. Bringing the organ back to the hospital and then immediately preceding to the transplant operation was a deeply moving experience. The surgeons kindly explained each step of both the liver and lung transplant procedures, and I learned a great deal from them. I was also very impressed by the environment at Hopkins View, the student housing where I stayed for two weeks. I shared a room with sixth-year medical students who were visiting at the same time. Hearing about their clinical rotations and listening to their future aspirations and career goals was inspiring.

Taro Kunitomi, MD
PGY-2 Resident, Juntendo University Hospital

Photo: With sixth-year medical students participating in clinical clerkship during the same period

Transplant Surgery Observation Program 2