BioJapan 2012 showcases iPS cell tech
News On Japan via NHKReloaded -- Oct 11

The BioJapan 2012 exhibition showcasing the latest technologies in regenerative medicine and drug development began in Yokohama on Wednesday.

More than 400 universities, research facilities and businesses from Japan and other countries are taking part.

The exhibition is attracting attention as it comes 2 days after Japanese scientist Shinya Yamanaka won this year's Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology.

Yamanaka won the prize for his research on induced pluripotent stem cells, or iPS cells. At a booth showcasing iPS technology related patents, a banner congratulated Yamanaka.

The Japanese supercomputer "K" is also on display at the venue. "K" was the world's fastest computer until this June and is expected to dramatically speed the development of new drugs.

Another exhibit features a robot that can conduct biotech experiments including tests on dangerous viruses.

Source: NHKReloaded



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