National Institute of Neuroscience, NCNP
Kodaira, Japan
Country
Japan
Institution
National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP)
Education summary
Kyoto University, Faculty of Medicine – MD
Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Department of Neurology – PhD
Career summary
I am the Director of the Department of Neuromuscular Research at the National Institute of Neuroscience, NCNP, Japan. After completing my MD and PhD at Kyoto University and postdoctoral training at Columbia University, I have focused on the diagnosis and pathogenesis of muscle diseases. My work has contributed to the identification of causative genes for disorders such as MNGIE, Danon disease, and CHKB-related muscular dystrophy. My laboratory functions as a nationwide referral centre for neuromuscular diseases, providing diagnostic services in both muscle pathology and genetic analysis.
I have served as a WMS Executive Board Member for 15 years since 2010, and currently chair the WMS Website Committee. I am also President of the Asian Oceanian Myology Center (AOMC), a regional myology society established in 2001 to promote collaboration and education in the Asia–Oceania region.
Through my continued involvement with the Executive Board, I hope to contribute to the Society’s global mission, enhance regional representation, and support the development of the next generation of clinicians and researchers in the field of neuromuscular diseases.
What is the personal or professional achievement you’re most proud of?
I am most proud of having contributed to the development of a sustainable diagnostic and research infrastructure for neuromuscular diseases in Japan, including a national referral system for muscle pathology and genetic analysis. This platform has enabled both patient care and research, and has served as a foundation for training the next generation of specialists.
In addition, I was involved in the preclinical development of sialic acid therapy for GNE myopathy, which contributed to the approval of the first treatment for this condition in Japan in 2024. It has been deeply meaningful to see basic research translated into a therapy that benefits patients.
Why did you first join the WMS?
I first joined the WMS to present my research on muscle diseases at its inaugural congress in 1996. Since then, I have participated in every annual meeting except the third, held in Naples in 1998—the year I moved to the United States to begin my postdoctoral training. Although I was still in the U.S. in 1999, I made a point to attend the WMS that year and have not missed a single meeting since.
What impressed me from the beginning was the Society’s rare combination of high scientific standards and a warm, inclusive atmosphere. I immediately felt part of the community, and the experience left a lasting impact on me. I believe this unique environment is one of the greatest strengths of the WMS, and I am committed to helping preserve and promote it for future generations.
What is your goal in joining the Executive Board?
My goal is to support the continued growth and global reach of the WMS while helping to maintain the values that make it a uniquely engaging and inclusive society. Having served on the Executive Board for many years, I hope to continue contributing by strengthening regional representation—particularly from Asia—and promoting training and networking opportunities for early-career members.
