Greeting

I am pleased to announce that I have been appointed President of the Japanese Society for Genome Editing (JSGE), succeeding former President Takashi Yamamoto. The JSGE, established in 2016, aims to exchange information on genome editing science and fundamental technologies related to genome editing, and to contribute to the development of this technology, societal impact, and human resource cultivation. The JSGE is positioned as a new society where young researchers, mainly those who are involved in the rapidly evolving field of genome editing, can learn, discuss, and develop this transformative technology.

I recall that dozens of researchers gathered in Okazaki in 2011 for the first genome editing research meeting to discuss gene modification technologies using ZFN and TALEN. The excitement and hope for the future among participants were palpable. CRISPR-Cas9, developed by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, Dr. Jennifer A. Doudna, and their colleagues, has brought about a "revolution" in various fields, including life sciences, food production, environmental science, and industry. I believe the JSGE has played a significant role in contributing to fundamental research on genome editing in Japan by promptly delivering these cutting-edge technological innovations to our members and fostering the exchange of information among numerous researchers.

In recent years, the medical applications of genome editing have shown remarkable progress. CRISPR-based technologies are opening new possibilities for treating previously untreatable hereditary diseases and cancers. Clinical trials around the world are starting to demonstrate groundbreaking results for conditions that were once considered difficult to address. Treatments for liver diseases, blood disorders, and cancer immunotherapies, in particular, are showing great promise. In Japan, we are also advancing genome-editing-based therapies, and I believe the JSGE will play a critical role in accelerating these developments.

We are engaged in a wide variety of activities centered on the keyword "genome editing." Our goal is to create an open academic society where researchers from diverse fields, as well as professionals from various industries and companies, can actively participate. Additionally, we view promoting the responsible use of genome editing, trusted by the general public, as one of our most important responsibilities. We will continue to promote the activities of the JSGE to advance genome editing research while actively seeking opinions and advice from our members. I look forward to the cooperation of all members and hope for the active participation of young researchers and students in our society.

June 2024
President: Tomoji Mashimo
(Professor, Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo)

Greeting (2022)
Greeting (2016)