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Juntendo University Research Promotion Center


Assessing clinical skills through the examiner's eyes

A pilot study found that an examiner-worn, neck-mounted camera can supplement the observation and review of clinical skills during OSCE assessments. The results showed moderate to strong agreement between live and video-based assessments, with the wearable camera enabling more observations to be evaluated than the fixed camera.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateJun 25, 2026

Can artificial intelligence match medical interview assessments by clinicians?

Researchers from Juntendo University found that AI-based assessment of medical interview transcripts is comparable to clinicians' scores while reducing evaluation time. The study demonstrated strong agreement between AI and human evaluations, with AI showing greater consistency across repeated assessments. This suggests a potential 'AI...

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJMIR Medical Education·TypeObservational study·DateApr 14, 2026

Composition of neuronal motor proteins regulates their cargo-specificity

Researchers discovered multiple molecular subtypes of kinesin-2 with distinct compositions and functions, including a KIF3B/B/KAP3 complex that preferentially associates with TRIM46 and facilitates its transport to the AIS. This study provides insights into how neurons regulate cargo delivery with specificity.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 10, 2026

B-type natriuretic peptide as a predictor of kidney disease progression in diabetes

A recent study found that B-type natriuretic peptide is independently associated with chronic kidney disease progression in individuals with diabetes. Combining BNP with urinary markers such as UACR improves risk prediction, highlighting its potential role in early detection and management of kidney disease.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalDiabetes Research and Clinical Practice·TypeObservational study·DateMar 24, 2026

Physical function is a crucial predictor of survival after heart failure

Researchers developed a new model to predict long-term survival after heart failure in elderly Japanese patients. The Top-20 XGBoost model incorporates physical function metrics, rivaling the importance of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and provides a more accurate estimation of mortality risk.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Lancet Regional Health - Western Pacific·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 20, 2026

Structural adaptations in aging podocytes

Research reveals that podocytes in aged rats adapt by increasing volume and forming atypical junctions to compensate for loss, while exporting unnecessary cellular components into the extracellular space. The study employed array tomography to elucidate age-related structural changes, shedding light on the mechanisms of aging glomeruli.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of the American Society of Nephrology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2026

Identification of the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder as paraventricular thalamic nucleus

The study reveals that the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (PVT) is the central pathological substrate of bipolar disorder, with notable alterations in cell number and gene expression. This discovery highlights the PVT as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for improving patient outcomes.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2026

Antibodies targeting immunoglobulin E Cε2 region as potential rapid anti-allergy therapy

Researchers identified Fab antibody fragments that target the IgE Cε2 domain, effectively stripping IgE from mast cells. The most potent Fab clones showed rapid efficacy in cellular assays and in vivo anaphylaxis models, demonstrating potential as a next-generation anti-allergy therapy.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2026

Role of ubiquilin-2 liquid droplets in α-synuclein aggregation

Studies have confirmed that liquid droplets formed by ubiquilin-2 (UBQLN2) facilitate the aggregation and fibril formation of α-synuclein protein. Researchers also discovered a compound that interacts with UBQLN2, preventing its self-association and liquid droplet formation, which may lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe EMBO Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2025

Newly discovered ‘hook’ in motor protein reveals how neurons deliver cargo with precision

Researchers uncover a unique structural motif in the tail region of kinesin-2 that acts as a molecular 'connector,' allowing the motor to correctly recognize and transport its cargo inside cells. The discovery provides new insights into brain transport and diseases, paving the way for diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 6, 2025

GLIS model as a predictor of outcomes in older adults with heart failure

Researchers validate GLIS model as a reliable predictor of sarcopenia and mortality risk in older patients with heart failure, outperforming existing tests. The model's accuracy enables early detection of physical decline and poor prognosis, informing treatment planning and discharge decisions.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateOct 29, 2025

Study reveals clinical frailty scale as a quick predictor of patient risk after heart failure administration

A study found that the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) is a quick predictor of patient risk after heart failure administration. The researchers used anonymized patient information from Japan and found that CFS scores were strongly correlated with physical and cognitive impairment, as well as increased mortality risk.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 28, 2025

New genetic model reveals calcium-induced calcium release is dispensable for skeletal muscle contraction

A genetically engineered mouse model shows RyR1-mediated calcium-induced calcium release plays a minimal role in normal skeletal muscle contraction, but is crucial in life-threatening muscle disorders. The study confirms depolarization-induced calcium release as the main driver of muscle contraction.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2025

From symptoms to biology: Neurodegeneration in paraventricular thalamus in bipolar disorder

Research finds that bipolar disorder is associated with neurodegenerative protein accumulation and tau pathology in the paraventricular thalamus, potentially contributing to its symptoms. The study also identifies a new marker, CHMP2B-positive granulovacuolar degeneration, in about half of BD cases.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalPsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2025

Evaluating FAST walk system for neuromodulation-assisted gait recovery in chronic stroke

A new rehabilitation approach, FAST walk, combines spinal and hip stimulation to enhance neuroplasticity and support motor recovery in patients with post-stroke impairments. The study found that the FAST walk group showed a statistically significant improvement in gait speed compared to other treatment groups.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 19, 2025

GDF-15 and eGFRdiff: Predicting kidney risk and survival in diabetes mellitus

A new study found that two simple blood markers—eGFRdiff and GDF-15 levels—can independently predict kidney disease progression and mortality in people with diabetes. Patients with lower eGFRdiff values faced a higher risk of chronic kidney disease, while those with elevated GDF-15 levels were at increased risk of death.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJournal of Cachexia Sarcopenia and Muscle·TypeObservational study·DateJul 29, 2025

Less is more: Low-dose olanzapine curbs chemo-induced nausea without the sedation

A recent study found that a 5 mg dose of olanzapine taken after chemotherapy significantly reduced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients, with fewer side effects compared to the standard 10 mg dose. The low-dose regimen was effective for both immediate and delayed symptoms, making it an attractive alternative for patients.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 24, 2025

How retrieval-augmented AI boosts radiology consults while safeguarding patient privacy

A new study demonstrates that retrieval-augmented generation can eliminate hallucinations in clinical LLMs while protecting patient privacy. The RAG-enhanced model responds significantly faster than cloud-based systems, delivering safer results without compromising data security.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·Journalnpj Digital Medicine·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 7, 2025

Nanobody-based 3D immunohistochemistry allows rapid visualization in thick tissue samples

Researchers have developed a new 3D-IHC technique that improves the speed, depth, and sensitivity of immunolabeling in thick tissue samples using nanobodies fused with peroxidase. The method enables ultra-fast and high-resolution mapping of neurons and glia in 1-mm-thick brain tissues.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2025

Exploring the link between overlapping chronic conditions and heart failure in seniors

A study of 1,113 patients aged 65+ found that nearly half had two or three overlapping cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic conditions, leading to poorer physical function and higher mortality rates. The findings support the need for early identification of vulnerable individuals and risk stratification without advanced diagnostics.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2025

New study reveals the curative potential of genome editing approach for genetic deafness

A new gene therapy developed by researchers from Juntendo University uses AAV to deliver genome editing tools to inner ear cells, repairing a dominant-negative mutation that causes syndromic hearing loss. The approach has shown high efficiency and specificity in treating hereditary hearing loss.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJCI Insight·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2025

New study shows regular exercise pre-hospitalization is linked to better outcomes in heart failure

A recent study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology found that older patients with heart failure who exercised regularly before hospitalization had better physical function and lower mortality. Regular exercise was linked to greater grip strength, higher gait speeds, and improved overall health outcomes.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 17, 2025

A closer look at severe tricuspid regurgitation in AFMR patients

A study found that 14.9% of AFMR patients had severe tricuspid regurgitation, affecting approximately one in seven patients, who were generally older and more likely to have atrial fibrillation, advanced heart failure symptoms, and significant right heart remodeling. The primary risk factors for severe TR were advanced age, permanent A...

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeObservational study·DateMar 13, 2025

Transforming thymic carcinoma treatment with a dual approach

Researchers have made a breakthrough in treating thymic carcinoma by combining immune checkpoint inhibitors with platinum-based chemotherapy. The MARBLE study found that atezolizumab combined with carboplatin and paclitaxel achieved an objective response rate of 56% and median progression-free survival of 9.6 months.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Lancet Oncology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 12, 2025

Exercise your way to lower blood pressure: Brain pathway to fight high blood pressure

A new study found that voluntary exercise restores Stat3 levels in the amygdala, a region involved in emotional responses and blood pressure regulation. This restoration prevents stress-induced hypertension, highlighting a previously unknown brain-based mechanism behind exercise's ability to combat high blood pressure.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalActa Physiologica·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2025

Discovering the mechanism behind brain’s inhibition network: From vision to action control

Researchers from Juntendo University discovered a four-step neural pathway involved in response inhibition, involving visual processing, sensory integration, action control, and execution of inhibition. The study aims to develop targeted therapeutic strategies for conditions like ADHD and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateDec 5, 2024

Unveiling genetic insights: how PAI-1 polymorphisms influence COVID-19 outcomes

A recent study from Japan investigates the impact of PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphism on thrombotic and inflammatory responses in Japanese patients with COVID-19. The study reveals that the 4G allele is linked to fibrinolysis inhibition and thrombosis risk, while the 5G allele promotes enhanced fibrinolysis and active cytokine responses.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalFrontiers in Immunology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2024

New study unveils the impact of mutations in the calcium release channel on muscle diseases

Mutations in the fifth segment of the ryanodine receptor channel (S5) lead to altered gating mechanisms and muscle disorders. The study identified three mutations linked to malignant hyperthermia and eight associated with central core disease, highlighting a novel regulatory mechanism of the RyR1 channel.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

New study assesses the efficacy of suvorexant in reducing delirium in older adults

Researchers tested suvorexant's effectiveness in reducing delirium in older adults, with findings suggesting it may benefit hyperactive and mixed subtypes but not hypoactive delirium. The study included 203 Japanese adults aged 65-90 years hospitalized for sudden illness or scheduled surgery.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 29, 2024

Researchers uncover a mechanism for propagation of flaviviruses

A recent study identified a protein named importin-7 (IPO7) as a carrier that transports flavivirus core proteins into host cell nuclei. The study found that IPO7 plays a crucial role in the efficient production of viral particles, even though initial replication was comparable between two cell types. Blocking this transport mechanism ...

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalPLOS Pathogens·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2024

DIF-1(+3): Combating drug-resistant malaria parasites

Researchers developed a new antimalarial agent, DIF-1(+3), effective against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. The compound showed stronger growth inhibitory effects than previous derivatives and significantly increased survival time in infected mice, suggesting it may offer more treatment options for malaria-endemic areas.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalBiochemical Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 23, 2024

Immunogenicity of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte sheets

The study reveals that hiPS-CMs induce a limited immune response but are rejected around 17-24 days after transplantation due to CD8+ T cells. Depletion of CD8+ T cells or treatment with tacrolimus prolongs sheet survival, highlighting the pivotal role of these immune cells.

SourceJuntendo University Research Promotion Center·JournalThe Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2024