Establishment of the "Laboratory of Healthcare Innovation"

Photo: Commemorative photo of the symposium speakers and authors (June 26, 2024, Shiba-Kyoritsu Campus)

The Keio University Faculty of Pharmacy established the Laboratory of Healthcare Innovation in April 2024, following a donation from Sato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. The name of this laboratory was chosen with the aim of "solving challenges in the healthcare field through innovative pharmaceutical research and striving to realize a healthy society." This is the first "Endowed Laboratory" at the Faculty of Pharmacy to hold the same status as other laboratories, taking charge of both education and research, including graduation research, lectures, and practical training.

In recent years, the importance of preventive medicine and self-medication has been increasing. There is a demand for the promotion of appropriate use of OTC (Over-the-Counter) drugs, the construction of evidence to support health from the perspective of consumers, awareness-raising to improve health literacy, and the development and effective utilization of systems and tools for these purposes. The Laboratory of Healthcare Innovation will develop research and educational activities related to healthcare, focusing on the following items. We will also flexibly respond to new research challenges for the promotion of self-care based on scientific and social demands.

・Solving scientific and social issues related to self-medication, self-care, OTC drugs, etc.

・Creating innovative healthcare solutions that support health from a consumer perspective

・Human resource development and consumer awareness-raising to achieve the above

・Providing information to improve consumer literacy regarding OTC drugs

As for research methods, we will actively develop laboratory work while utilizing data-driven approaches such as medical big data analysis and consumer/patient panel surveys depending on the objective. Through this, we will build empirical evidence from multifaceted perspectives and create knowledge regarding healthcare. Furthermore, with the aim of improving consumer literacy, we plan to create books and other materials regarding self-care and self-medication that are easy for the general public to understand. This research field is closely related to a wide range of research areas, including not only pharmaceutical sciences but also the construction of systems for lifestyle habits and healthcare promotion. Therefore, collaboration with various fields is essential. Aiming to contribute to society and medical care, we intend to promote research by maximizing synergy effects through cooperation with other faculties, medical sites (pharmacies, hospitals, etc.), and collaboration with other research institutions.

This laboratory is conducting research activities under a system led by Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy Makoto Arita, along with concurrent Professors Hidemi Misawa and Satoko Hori, Associate Professor Ayako Furugen, and Project Assistant Professor Akira Yamagami. Additionally, as part of human resource development, we are accepting undergraduate and graduate students; four undergraduate students were assigned in September of this year, and 11 graduate students in Doctoral Programs are scheduled to be assigned from April 2025.

To commemorate the opening of this laboratory, a Kick-off Symposium was held this June in the Medium Auditorium of the Shiba-Kyoritsu Campus, attended by many students and faculty members from the Faculty of Pharmacy and School of Medicine, as well as representatives from related companies. The day opened with opening remarks from Dean Arita, followed by an explanation of the purpose by the Chairperson of the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Misawa and Professor Hori of the Faculty of Pharmacy. Subsequently, five speakers gave lectures on the following themes.

Ms. Ota offered proposals from an administrative perspective regarding current policies for promoting healthcare and expectations for pharmacists and community pharmacies. Project Professor Kishimoto introduced the latest research through the development of Software as a Medical Device from the standpoint of a medical researcher. Mr. Mitomo gave a lecture on the latest information from companies providing healthcare services. Furthermore, Professor Yamaura introduced the latest initiatives regarding oral self-care at the Keio University Pharmacy, and Associate Professor Furugen presented an overview of the new laboratory and future research plans.

Participants listened intently, and an active Q&A session took place, concluding with closing remarks from Chairperson of the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences Misawa. This symposium greatly increased expectations for future research activities.

After the symposium, the venue moved to the common room overlooking Tokyo Tower for a celebration. Congratulatory remarks were given by Mr. Seiichi Sato, President and Representative Director of Sato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., followed by greetings from Keio University Vice-President Mitsunori Kitagawa and former Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy Hideko Kanazawa (currently Professor Emeritus of Keio University), who laid the foundation for this laboratory. The event was attended by symposium speakers, representatives from Sato Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and other related companies, and faculty members from the Faculty of Pharmacy, serving as a venue for active information exchange.

Thus, the "Laboratory of Healthcare Innovation" has taken a new step forward. We will continue to deepen cooperation within and outside the university and strive toward solving challenges in the healthcare field and creating new value.