Background of the Establishment of Japan MPS Initiative
MPS (microphysiological systems) have been attracting attention in recent years as a novel in vitro evaluation system with high biomimetic properties. In Europe and the United States, research and development of MPS began around 2010, and many MPS suppliers have already provided various types of cells and devices, and pharmaceutical companies have incorporated MPS into their drug research and development.
In Japan, following the AMED-MPS project (FY 2017-2021), the AMED-MPS2 project has been working toward social implementation of MPS from Japan since FY 2022. In addition, the MPS-RS project is in charge of bridging the gap from social implementation to administrative use.
In order to further develop research and development related to MPS and to truly achieve social implementation and administrative use, we believe it is necessary to gather a wide range of opinions from industry, academia, and government, and reflect them in the development of MPS. Therefore, we have established Japan MPS Initiative as an activity body widely participated by industry, academia, and government to widely accept needs for evaluation systems using MPS, to implement them in society, and to use them for administrative purposes.
Aims of Japan MPS Initiative
The purpose of Japan MPS Initiative is to promote the revitalization and social implementation of MPS research in Japan and the establishment of guidelines for Japan-originated test methods, and to provide a forum for discussion to lead the development of MPS from the perspectives of both basic research and regulatory science. It also aims at international harmonization through collaboration with International MPS Society (iMPSS) and other organizations, including the establishment of guidelines for Japanese MPS testing methods.
Structure of Japan MPS Initiative
Japan MPS Initiative consists of the Executive Committee, the Secretariat, the Planning and Management Committee, and the Task Force as an internal organization.
・Executive Committee: The Executive Committee discusses the operation of Japan MPS Initiative.
・Planning and Management Committee: Plans and manages the Forum of Japan MPS Initiative held once a year.
・Task Force: A consultative body consisting of experts in protocol development and internationalization.
・The secretariat is located in the Division of Pharmacology, Center for Biologics Research and Safety, National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS).
※The Forum of Japan MPS Initiative will be planned and operated by the Planning and Steering Committee as a forum for the exchange of opinions among industry, academia, and government.
We will work on the activities of Japan MPS Initiative to promote the utilization of MPS from Japan, and will endeavor to provide a forum for the active exchange of opinions among the members. We would appreciate your understanding, support and cooperation in the future activities of Japan MPS Initiative.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Representative: Seiichi Ishida (Sojo University / National Institute of Health Sciences)
