Greeting from the President
April 30, 2024
Hiromi Yanagisawa, President
Life Center for Survival Dynamics, TARA, University of Tsukuba
The Japanese Society for Matrix Biology and Medicine was founded in 1969 with the first annual scientific meeting, and for more than half a century, it has contributed to the advancement of research in connective tissue science in Japan. In 2015, the Society merged with the Matrix Research Group (originally started as the Collagen Symposium in 1959 and later evolved into the Matrix Research Group), bringing together experts in extracellular matrix (ECM)–related molecules and disease mechanisms. This integration has created a broad forum for researchers spanning basic to clinical fields to exchange information and ideas. In recent years, innovative technologies such as next-generation imaging and multi-omics analyses have further clarified the nature of the ECM. At the same time, research at the interface of biomaterials and biomechanics has opened new frontiers, marking a period of transition for the Society.
In April 2024, I succeeded Professor Motoyoshi Nomizu (Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences) as the 15th president of our Society. Building on the traditions established by the past presidents, board members, and council members, I plan to focus the Society’s efforts on four key pillars: invigorating matrix research, fostering young scientists, supporting women researchers, and promoting internationalization. I will do my best to contribute to the Society’s activities in these areas, and I sincerely ask for your continued support.
The most important activity of the Japanese Society for Matrix Biology and Medicine is its annual scientific meeting. The field of connective tissue research covers a wide range of disciplines, and I strongly encourage researchers from diverse areas to participate in the JSMBM Annual Meeting. In addition to the scientific meeting, the Society awards several honors, including the Ōtaka Award, the Scientific Award, the Distinguished Contribution Award, and the Young Investigator Award presented at the annual meeting. We also offer the JSMBM International Travel Award to support young members’ participation and presentations at international conferences, helping them gain broader perspectives and develop their research globally. We warmly welcome applications from young researchers.
Beyond advancing research in connective tissues and related areas, the Japanese Society for Matrix Biology and Medicine aims to deepen communication among researchers. Through various activities, we strive to strengthen the Society’s contribution to the development of research related to connective tissues and the extracellular matrix. In particular, we are enhancing our website and social network presence for faster information dissemination, and will continue to enrich information sharing among members through our biannual newsletter. We thank you for your continued support.
Administrative Office
The Japanese Society for Matrix Biology and Medicine
3F, Association for Supporting Academic Societies, 5-3-13 Ōtsuka, Bunkyō-ku, Tokyo 112-0012, Japan
Tel: +81-3-5981-6011 | Fax: +81-3-5981-6012
E-mail: jsmbm@asas-mail.jp