Kyoto University The Haruhisa Inoue lab uses iPS cells to find potential drugs against RNA viruses. The last year has seen intensive research around the world on SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite several vaccines already available, the rapid mutation of the virus is causing concern that the infection will continue to spread. A new study led by CiRA Professor Haruhisa Inoue shows that iPS cells can assist in finding effective drugs for RNA viruses. HIV, Ebola virus, and now the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, in the last half century, RNA viruses have been responsible for many of society’s greatest health calamities. One of the great challenges in managing these viruses is their rapid mutation rate. Indeed, it is possible that as SARS-Cov-2 continues to mutate, it may need, like influenza, new vaccines annually.
Kyoto University A team of scientists led by CiRA Professor Haruhisa Inoue reports the combination of deep learning and iPS cell technology for the diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). For many devasting neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), patients are diagnosed only after becoming symptomatic. However, the evidence of memory and muscle loss is seen only after the disease has progressed to irreversible states. Researchers are therefore exploring ways to identify patients well before they become symptomatic, which could allow for wider clinical options. “If we can catch the disease at the reversible stage, we may reverse and cancel the disease.” said CiRA Prof. Haruhisa Inoue, a specialist of ALS research using iPS cells.