Cancer Research Institute of Kanazawa University

　　The Kanazawa University Cancer Research Institute (KU-CRI) was established in 1967 as the only institute solely dedicated to cancer research among the Research Institutes and Centers of Japan National Universities. Since its founding, KU-CRI has conducted comprehensive studies ranging from basic research to clinical applications in the field of oncology. Our mission is to advance cutting-edge basic research to elucidate the fundamental nature of cancer and translate these findings into innovative diagnostic and therapeutic technologies for the next generation, thereby contributing to the conquest of cancer and the establishment of a healthy and long-lived society.

　　Cancer remains one of the most formidable challenges to human health. In particular, malignant progression—such as metastasis and drug resistance—constitutes a critical determinant of therapeutic outcomes, and elucidating and controlling these processes represents an urgent research priority. In response, we are conducting basic research aimed at a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving cancer malignancy, while embracing advances in personalized medicine informed by genomic analysis and data science. Our research framework is structured around key thematic areas including ‘cancer stem cells,’ ‘tumor microenvironment,’ ‘advanced cancer models,’ and ‘molecular therapeutic targets,’ with an emphasis on integrating diverse domains of knowledge. In the current era of rapid innovation in the life sciences, emerging research paradigms—such as genomics-driven medicine, data-intensive approaches leveraging artificial intelligence, and next-generation experimental platforms including organoids and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) mouse models—are reshaping the landscape of cancer research. By incorporating these cutting-edge technologies and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, we aim to enhance the sophistication and breadth of our research, pushing the intellectual frontiers of oncology. Furthermore, we are actively advancing translational research, bridging basic discoveries to clinical applications, from mechanistic insights to the identification of novel therapeutic targets.

　　KU-CRI has been designated by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) as a Joint Usage/Research Center on “Metastasis and Drug Resistance”. We serve as a core hub within an international research network through collaborative efforts with distinguished researchers both in Japan and abroad. We have established and strengthened partnerships with world-renowned institutions in countries including Singapore, South Korea, China, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. At the same time, we foster a global research environment within the institute itself, where multinational researchers and students are actively engaged. Additionally, starting in 2023, the “Establishing a collaborative intelligence platform towards extending healthy life expectancy” project was launched with support from the “MEXT Promotion of Development of a Joint Usage/Research System Project: Coalition of Universities for Research Excellence Program (CURE)”. Collaborating with IDAC of Tohoku University, RIMD of Osaka University, and IAB of Keio University, we are establishing an interdisciplinary research hub, “Healthy Life Span Science,” and promoting endeavors to bridge research outcomes with societal implementation by enhancing flexible collaboration and cooperation that transcend conventional academic boundaries.

　　KU-CRI will continue to advance forward-looking cancer research as a central hub, grounded in innovation and collaboration. Through these efforts, we remain committed to contributing to the conquest of cancer and the advancement of human well-being. We would be deeply grateful for your continued understanding and support for our research activities and initiatives as a collaborative research center.

Takeshi Suzuki

Director, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University