Our Research
Aging is not an inevitable fate. Abe Youan Aging Research Institute views aging as a "controllable biological phenomenon" and advances research through multifaceted approaches based on cutting-edge science.
Research Concept
Abe Youan Aging Research Institute inherits the Abe family's mission to "nurture people's health" that has continued since 1731, and is engaged in cutting-edge geroscience research.
The characteristic of our research lies in the "fusion of tradition and science." Eastern medicine has the concept of "Mibyou" (pre-disease state) that captures signs before illness and intervenes, and a philosophy that views the body as a single system and emphasizes overall balance and harmony. Our approach is to realize this Eastern medical philosophy through the latest data science, biotechnology, and AI.
Tradition
Eastern Medicine Philosophy
- Mibyou (Pre-disease)
- Whole-body Harmony
- Youjou (Health Cultivation)
Science
Cutting-edge Technology
- Data Science
- Biotechnology
- AI
Abe Youan Aging Research Institute's Unique Approach
"Super Harmony through Optimization of Internal Information Flow"Five Focus Areas
Cellular Senescence and Senolytics
The accumulation of senescent cells is one of the major causes of age-related diseases. We are researching how senescent cells accumulate and what effects they have on surrounding tissues.
- Elucidating mechanisms of senescent cell accumulation
- Development of senolytics (senescent cell removing drugs)
- Control of SASP (Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype)
Epigenetics and Aging
Epigenetics controls gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. By understanding and controlling age-related epigenetic changes, we aim to intervene in the aging process.
- Research on DNA methylation clocks
- Histone modifications and aging
- Epigenetic reprogramming
Metabolism, Nutrition, and Aging
Diet and metabolism have a significant impact on the aging process. We are researching the effects of caloric restriction, intermittent fasting, and specific nutrients on lifespan and healthspan.
- Molecular mechanisms of caloric restriction
- Autophagy and aging
- Gut microbiome and aging
Regenerative Medicine and Aging
With age, stem cell function declines and tissue regeneration capacity decreases. Through maintaining and restoring stem cell function, we aim to rejuvenate tissues and organs.
- Mechanisms of stem cell aging
- Promotion of tissue regeneration
- Application of reprogramming factors
Digital Health and AI
We analyze vast amounts of data from wearable devices, genomic data, and electronic medical records using AI, and apply them to prediction and prevention of aging.
- Identification of aging biomarkers
- Personalized aging interventions
- Prediction using digital twins
Research Team
Nozomi Uemura
Ph.D.
Specializes in aging biology. Working on elucidating mechanisms of cellular senescence and developing senolytics.
Hiroaki Miyata
Professor, Keio University
Tomohiko Urano
Professor, International University of Health and Welfare
Research Collaboration
Abe Youan Aging Research Institute actively promotes collaboration with universities, research institutions, and companies. We believe cross-disciplinary cooperation is essential to address the complex challenge of aging research.
Academic Collaboration
Joint research projects with universities and research institutions
Industry Collaboration
Joint development with pharmaceutical and healthcare companies
International Collaboration
Global research network with overseas research institutions
Open Innovation
Collaboration with startups and ventures
For research collaboration inquiries, please contact us through the inquiry form.
Contact Us