Fundamental science from Japanese universities and national research institutes.
SFTS, a tick-borne disease with 10-30% fatality rate. With treatment approved in 2024, early diagnosis is key. Japanese institutions including Osaka University are developing rapid diagnostic kits similar to flu tests. Record-high cases in 2025 with first Hokkaido infection raises nationwide concern.
Researchers at Juntendo and Hiroshima Universities have found that soluble ST2 (sST2), naturally maintained at high levels in the body, suppresses food allergies by blocking IL-33 signaling. The study identifies fibroblasts as the key sST2-producing cells and points toward new allergy prevention and treatment strategies.
Kyoto University researchers have identified the brain's "motivation brake" that prevents us from starting unpleasant tasks. The VS-VP neural pathway suppresses action initiation under stress. This breakthrough discovery opens new possibilities for treating depression and burnout syndrome.
Groundbreaking research from Shinshu University and Asahimatsu Foods reveals that koya-dofu (freeze-dried tofu), a traditional Japanese preserved food, contains resistant protein that promotes GLP-1 production, potentially preventing obesity and fatty liver disease. Discover why the world is turning to Japanese fermented and preserved foods for health benefits.
Explore Japan's ambitious TSUKUYOMI lunar radio telescope project led by JAXA, NAOJ, and Tohoku University. Launching prototype "LOPTA" in the 2020s, deploying 10+ antennas by late 2030s to detect the 21-cm hydrogen line from the Cosmic Dark Ages—the first 100 million years after the Big Bang.
A joint research team from ATR, Kyoto University, and AIST is developing a humanoid robot that can freely ride a skateboard. Learn about the technology expected to be applied in disaster rescue, nursing care, and construction—including dynamic balance control and off-road mobility. Includes comparison with global humanoid robot development.
Yamagata University has announced an ambitious CubeSat development and launch project. Learn about the significance of a Japanese regional university entering space development, their project goals, and expected outcomes.
Nagasaki University researchers solved a 160-year taxonomic mystery dating back to Siebold's era, discovering that Japan's common red stingray actually comprises multiple species. The team formally described the new species Hemitrygon ariakensis, found primarily in the Ariake Sea, resolving confusion that began when specimens were first collected in the Edo period.
The Kakeya Conjecture, proposed by Japanese mathematician Sōichi Kakeya in 1917, has finally been proven in 3D space after 108 years. This historic proof by Hong Wang (NYU) and Joshua Zahl (UBC) is expected to have far-reaching applications in harmonic analysis, signal processing, and cryptography.
Researchers at Japan's JAIST discovered that Ewingella americana bacteria from Japanese tree frog intestines completely eliminated colorectal cancer in mice with a single dose, achieving 100% complete response rate. This breakthrough significantly outperformed existing chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments.
A groundbreaking UK-Japan study reveals that playing Nintendo's Super Mario Bros. and Yoshi games can boost happiness and reduce burnout risk in young adults. Discover how the "childlike wonder" evoked by colorful visuals and cheerful music creates a mental reset that combats modern stress and exhaustion.