I have been honored with the position of Professor of Tumor Biology in the Department of Tumor Pathophysiology at the Center for Neurological Disorders and Tumor Molecular Medicine Research of the Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, effective April 1, 2017. In this esteemed department, I aspire to contribute to and advance medical research, which has been built upon the foundation laid by our predecessors.
At the heart of our research lies the theme of epigenetics, which investigates the mechanisms determining how genetic information on the DNA is utilized. It is essential for genes on the cell's DNA (genome) to be activated or deactivated according to circumstances. Epigenetic abnormalities are increasingly understood to be induced by genetic mutations or environmental factors, leading to the onset of various diseases such as cancer, metabolic disorders, and neurological diseases. Understanding the epigenome in addition to the genome has become crucial in explaining the diversity of diseases.
Advancements in molecular biology techniques in recent years have progressed rapidly. Consequently, diseases that were previously poorly understood and lacked effective treatments are now being cured. I believe that such advancements in medicine contribute to human health and are a source of hope for many. By tackling unresolved medical challenges and approaching them from various angles, I aim to conduct research on the mechanisms and treatments related to disease onset.
I extend my sincere greetings and humbly request your continued guidance and encouragement in the future.
Summer, 2017 Yutaka Kondo