Monday, December 8, 2008
Dr. Shinya Yamanaka, a professor at Kyoto University, who was the first in the world to develop a method for generating iPS cells (induced pluripotent stem cells), was invited to the meeting. The participants exchanged opinions on the way to capitalize on innovative technology to bolster Japan's competitiveness.
After a lecture given by Professor Yamanaka, Prime Minister Aso said, "It is highly likely that iPS cells will contribute to mitigating and curing intractable diseases, including Parkinson's disease. I am looking forward to seeing them put to practical use at the earliest possible date."