Pharmacy UGM – The Faculty of Pharmacy at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has embarked on a diplomatic mission to foster and enhance collaboration with four esteemed institutions in Japan from 24 to 28 September 2023. The delegation engaged in various activities during their visit, solidifying their commitment to advancing pharmaceutical research and development.
- Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute (CCCRI):
At CCCRI, the UGM Faculty of Pharmacy delegation had a productive meeting with Director Yoshitaka Hippo, MD, PhD. The discussions revolved around the ongoing collaborative research supported by the e-ASIA joint research program for 2022-2024. The primary focus was on the development of anti-cancer drug compounds. The fruitful meeting concluded with an agreement to actively participate in the ICPAPS event scheduled on 3 – 5 November 2023, which will be hosted by Faculty of Pharmacy UGM.
(Visitation at Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute)
- Osaka Metropolitan University:
At Osaka Metropolitan University, where they met with Prof. Mitsunori Kirihata, Ph.D., the director of the Research Center for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy, the UGM delegation continued their tour. Prof. Dr. apt. Ratna Asmah, M.Si., and Dr. apt. Riries Istighfari Jenie, M.Si., who are researching boron-derived curcumin complexes for possible anti-cancer chemicals, spoke about their research during this visit. Prof. Kirihata extended an invitation for collaboration, including the opportunity for UGM students and faculty to conduct research in his laboratory. He also provided essential chemical materials to aid in the continuation of research efforts in Indonesia.
(Visitation Research Center for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy, Osaka Metropolitan University)
- Nara Institute of Science and Technology (NAIST):
The UGM delegation had the privilege of meeting with Prof. Jun-ya Kato, Head of the Tumor Cell Biology Laboratory at NAIST. Prof. Kato expressed a keen interest in collaborating, particularly in the field of cancer research. He generously provided access to facilities and cell lines crucial for research purposes.
(Visitation at Tumor Cell Biology Laboratory, NAIST)
- Laboratory of Advanced Cosmetic Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University:
On September 28, 2023, the UGM delegation visited the Laboratory of Advanced Cosmetic Sciences, accompanied by Dr. apt. Muthi’ Ikawati and Dr. apt. Puguh Indrasetiawan, who are currently serving as visiting researchers there. The visit was warmly received by Associate Professors Dr. Kaori Saito, Dr. Hiroko Kato, and Dr. Manami Toriyama. During the meeting, various topics were discussed, leading to plans for an upcoming online meeting in the third week of October to explore the possibility of UGM’s involvement in the Nishimura Foundation grant. This grant aims to support young scientists (under 40 years old) from Indonesia in conducting research at the Laboratory of Advanced Cosmetic Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University.
(Visitation at Laboratory of Advanced Cosmetic Sciences, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University)
These collaborative efforts between Faculty of Pharmacy UGM and prominent Japanese institutions signify a promising future in pharmaceutical research and development, contributing to advancements in healthcare and the fight against cancer. The partnerships forged during this visit are expected to yield innovative solutions and breakthroughs in the field of pharmacy and medicine.