Brain Research Institute
NIIGATA UNIVERSITY

2024

Message from the Director

In the Age of Generative AI
A Perspective from the
Director of Brain Research Institute

Osamu Onodera
We've entered the age of generative AI, where theaccumulation and summarization of knowledge is no longer
an exclusive academic prowess or a special skill. Just as
Google has revolutionarily democratized access to pastknowledge, generative AI will democratize much of what
was previously deemed academic. This democratization
will likely lead to a significant transformation in the
structure of academia, which has been built with theprimary purpose of acquiring past knowledge, and in themechanisms of professions that rely on it. Reconstructing
knowledge will no longer be an exclusive task and will be
open to all.
I believe this will bring about substantial changes in
research as well. The significance of tasks such as
literature reviews and comparisons of previous studies will
likely diminish. The future is likely to see AI taking over insilico analysis using large-scale data. In such a scenario,
our role will be simply to collect data. Collecting accurate
data is fundamental to science, but this is not what wehave aspired to be as scientists since childhood. Manyof us, apart from a few scientists, may become mere
data gatherers. This will demand a new employment andeducation system in the scientific community. However,there seems to be little sense of urgency about this in
the research community. We need to urgently reassessscience and research.
Scientific research is essentially the process of finding
new things from nothing. The process involves struggles.
Dr. Martin A. Schwartz, a professor at the Universityof Virginia at the time, remarked in a 2008 essay that
"Science involves confronting our ‘absolute stupidity’.” Hepointed out that research is immersion in the unknown,
commenting, “We can’t be sure whether we’re asking
the right question or doing the right experiment until we
get the answer or the result.” The path can be frustrating
and full of errors, forcing us to face our own stupidity. He
stated, however, “That kind of stupidity is an existential
fact, inherent in our efforts to push our way into theunknown.” He added that “One of the beautiful things
about science is that it allows us to bumble along, getting
it wrong time after time, and feel perfectly fine as long as
we learn something each time.” This statement connotes asense of pride as a scientist.
Much of our work involves reconstructing knowledge. But
in the age of generative AI, we must leave that to AI andcontinue to selflessly challenge ourselves to do something
truly new, unknown to anyone, and yet seemingly foolish.
This kind of work doesn't come with a roadmap or an exit
strategy. We challenge because we don’t have them. I
believe that a research institute is a place where people
with a spirit to keep challenging gather.

Schwartz emphasized in his essay that what a scientist
should do is to make a transition “from learning what otherpeople once discovered to making your own discoveries.”
This essentially aligns with the old saying “standing on theshoulders of giants."
I believe that only a limited number of people who cantruly practice this kind of science as a profession. And
yet, we need to do science education at a research
institute as well. Regarding education, Schwartz statedthat “the faculty committee pushes until the student starts
getting the answers wrong or gives up and says, ‘I don’t
know’.” In his view, “The point of the exam isn’t to see if
the student gets all the answers right. If they do, it’s thefaculty who failed the exam.” He continued, “The point is
to identify the student’s weaknesses, partly to see where
they need to invest some effort and partly to see whether
the student’s knowledge fails at a sufficiently high level thatthey are ready to take on a research project.”
Brilliance and the spirit of challenge are traits that are
difficult to coexist with. Our institute aims to nurture brilliant
scientists who will continue to take on this challenge. We
will continue to provide an environment in which we put
generative AI to full use in order to make associations withpast knowledge to reach new understandings.
In this new environment, the inquisitive mind combinedwith the potential of generative AI will allow us to continue
to explore the unknown and constantly build new
knowledge. In that process, we experience failure, learn
from it, and deepen our understanding. This is what agenuine scientist is, and this is the genuine power oflearning.
This new challenge brings us redefine the role of scientists
and build new knowledge that will be passed on to thenext generation of scientists. The new knowledge will
provide the basis for them to take on another challenges.
Our mission as scientists is grounded in such approachand commitment, which will be a beacon for prospective
researchers. The process allows us pursue the essenceof science, search for truth, deepen our knowledge,
and develop our understanding of the world. This is therole that BRI is assigned to in the age of generative AI.
*Proofread by ChatGPT4.
Schwartz, M. A. “The importance of stupidity in scientificresearch.” J Cell Sci 121, 1771–1771 (2008).

1

Histor y
Since1957

1967

1971

1977

Brain Disorder Specimen Center is set up.

Research Facility of Neurosurgery,Research Facility of Neurosurgery

School of Medicine is transformedat School of Medicine, the origin of

into Brain Research Institute.

New Brain Disorder

Brain Research Institute is founded.

Faculty of Morphology is renamed

Specimen Center

Faculty of Neuropathology.

opens. (531m 2 )20021997 1996

Brain Disorder Analysis

Monbusho’s Center

Reorganization results in BRI’s new structure of 3

Center is transformed into 2of Excellence (COE)

big branches: Basic Neuroscience Branch (Depts.

Centers: Center of Integrated

program starts.

of Molecular Neurobiology, Cellular Neurobiology,

Human Brain Science and

Neurophysiology, and Developmental

Center for Bioresource-

Neurobiology), Pathological Neurosciencebased Researches. The

Branch (Depts. of Pathology and Molecularlatter merges with Genetic

2

1995

Neuropathology), and Clinical Neuroscience

Research Facility of Niigata

Ultra-high Magnetic Field

Branch (Depts. of Neurosurgery and Neurology).

University and Animal Testing

MRI Research Building

Brain Disorder Specimen Center is renamed

Facility, School of Medicine.

opens. (251m2)

Brain Disorder Analysis Center.

2003

2006

2008

CIHBS PET Building
opens. (416m2)

Center for Integrated Human Brain Science

Center for Bioresource-based(CIHBS) Building opens. (3,969m2)

Researches extension is completed.

21st century COE program “Virtual(200m 2 )University of Neuropathology” starts.

2022

2016

2009

BRI renews MEXT’s certification

BRI renews MEXT’s certification

BRI is certified as a Joint Usage/

on the Joint Usage/Researchon the Joint Usage/Research

Research Center by the Ministry ofCenter, which is renamed “TheCenter, which is renamed

Education, Culture, Sports, Science andCollaborative Research Center“Collaborative Research Center

Technology (MEXT). (“the Advanced

for Neuropathological andfor Brain Diseases Utilizing

Collaborative Research Center for Brain

Psychiatric Disorders”.

Neuropathological Resources”.

Diseases Utilizing NeuropathologicalSpecimens”, start date: April 1, 2010)

Organization
As of July 1 2024

Basic Neuroscience BranchCenter for Integrated Human Brain Science

Dept. of Brain Tumor Biology

Dept. of Integrated Neuroscience

Assoc. Prof.

Nobuyuki Takei

Assist. Prof.

Yuriko Iwakura

Assist. Prof.

Masayasu Okada
Dept. of Cellular Neuropathology

Prof.

Takayasu Mikuni

Assoc. Prof.

Motokazu Uchigashima

Assist. Prof.

Daisuke SatohDept. of System Pathology for Neurological Disorders
Prof.

Kazuki Tainaka

Prof.

Masaki Ueno

Specially Appointed Prof.

Kohta Yoshida

Assoc. Prof.

Naoko Fujito

Assist. Prof.

Hitoshi Uchida

Assist. Prof.

Tokiharu Sato

Assist. Prof.

Takahiro Inoue

Assist. Prof.

Xinyi Liu

Assist. Prof.

Yuuki Ishita

Pathological Neuroscience Branch
Dept. of Pathology
Prof.

Akiyoshi Kakita

Assoc. Prof.

Hiroshi Shimizu

Assist. Prof.

Asa Nakahara
Dept. of Molecular Pathology

Visiting Professor

Koichi Wakabayashi

Visiting Assoc. Prof.

Fumiaki Mori

Clinical Neuroscience Branch
Dept. of Neurosurgery
Prof.

Makoto Oishi

Assoc. Prof.

Hitoshi Hasegawa

Assist. Prof.

Ryosuke Ogura
Dept. of Neurology

Yukimi Nakamura

Assist. Prof.

Dept. of Biological Magnetic ResonanceProf.

Hironaka Igarashi

Assoc. Prof.

Kosuke Itoh

Assist. Prof.

Masaki Watanabe

Dept. of Functional Neurology & Neurosurgery
Prof.

Hitoshi Shimada

Assoc. Prof.

Yoshihiro Murakami

Assist. Prof.

Masahiro Hatakeyama

Center for Bioresource-based Researches
Bioresource Science Branch
Dept. of Molecular Genetics
Prof.

Takeshi Ikeuchi

Assoc. Prof.

Akinori Miyashita

Assist. Prof.

Kensaku Kasuga

Dept. of Comparative & Experimental Medicine
Prof.

Toshikuni Sasaoka

Assoc. Prof.

Nanaho Fukuda

Assist. Prof.

Kanako Oda
Dept. of Animal Model Development

Prof.

Toshikuni Sasaoka

Assoc. Prof.

Manabu Abe
Brain Science Branch
Dept. of Pathology Neuroscience

Prof.

Mari Tada

Assist. Prof.

Rie Saito
Dept. of Molecular NeuroscienceProf.

Osamu Onodera

Assoc. Prof.

Taisuke Kato

Assist. Prof.

Yuka Mitsuhashi
Dept. of Neuroscience of DiseaseProf.

Hideaki Matsui

Prof.

Osamu Onodera

Assoc. Prof.

Ryuichi Hishida

Assoc. Prof.

Masato Kanazawa

Assoc. Prof.

Tomoyuki Yamanaka

Assist. Prof.

Shintaro Tsuboguchi

Assoc. Prof.

Atsushi Sugie

Assist. Prof.

Godfried Dougnon

Assist. Prof.

Takayoshi Otsuka

Endowed Research Branch
Advanced Tratment of Neurological Disease BranchSpecially Appointed Assoc. Prof.

Tomohiko Ishihara

Specially Appointed Assoc. Prof.

Manabu Natsumeda

3

Professors and Research Initiatives
Dept. of Cellular Neuropathology
Our goal is to understand the physiology and pathophysiology

engineering technologies in the broad field of neuroscienceof the brain at the cellular and molecular levels. We established(Neuron, 2017). Using "SLENDR" and "vSLENDR", we will explore"SLENDR", a technique based on in vivo genome editing, tothe cellular and molecular mechanism underlying long-lasting

image endogenous proteins with high specificity, resolution andmemory, and further investigate how the mechanism is impaired

contrast in single cells in mammalian brain tissue (Cell, 2016).

in memory disorders to provide new therapeutic strategies.

In addition, we recently developed "vSLENDR", a genome
editing method to target virtually any cell-types, areas and ages
across the brain, widely expanding the applicability of genome

Prof.
Takayasu Mikuni

4

Dept. of System Pathology for Neurological
Disorders -Tainaka Lab
Current biopsy and histology have long relied on thin-sectioned

we aim at establishing a novel 3D neuropathology by developing

2D images with several chemical staining methods and specifica highly efficient clearing protocol for human brain tissue andimmunohistochemistry. Facile 3D visualization of human brain

combining with a rapid 3D imaging using light-sheet fluorescencetissue with single-cell resolution would provide a novel concept of

microscopy.

the neuropathological diagnosis and contribute our understandingof pathological mechanisms based on comprehensive andquantitative analysis of individual biomarker. In this laboratory,Prof.
Kazuki Tainaka

Dept. of System Pathology for Neurological
Disorders -Ueno Lab
Central nervous system injuries due to stroke or trauma disrupt

demonstrated that spared motor and autonomic circuits areneural circuits and result in severe deficits of functions. The

dynamically reorganized after injuries and influence the recovery

brain and spinal cord have very limited capacity to reconstructprocess of functions. These results suggest that controllingthe circuit once it is damaged, and therefore none of effective

the rewiring of the circuit would lead to make proper neuronaltherapeutic methods have been developed so far. We previously

connections that achieve functional recovery. The goal of ourstudy is to understand the process of rewiring and its underlying
molecular mechanisms and neural functions. To this end, we are
analyzing neural systems of both normal and injured brain andspinal cord, using cutting-edge techniques including, mouse
genetics, viral tracers, optogenetics, chemogenetics, and 3D
behavior analysis. We believe that this study paves the way todevelop novel strategies to regenerate the circuits and restore
neural functions.

Prof.
Masaki Ueno

5

Dept. of System Pathology for Neurological
Disorders -Laboratory for Evolutionary Brain Pathology
The genetic causes and susceptibility to brain disorders are

but formed over long periods of evolutionary time through events

encoded in the genome sequence. Recent advancements insuch as mutations, recombination, selection, introgression, andsequencing technology give easy access to an individual's

genetic drift. Furthermore, the diversification of the genome

genome sequence. However, understanding the "meaning" of thisthrough these changes contributes to differences in susceptibility

genome sequence is extremely challenging. One reason for thisto diseases among individuals. Evolutionary genomic biology aims

is that the genome sequence is not like a book written all at once

to elucidate how these evolutionary events occur and to reveal
the principles of genome diversification using model organisms
such as nematodes. Applying this knowledge to the analysis of
the genetic background from which disease-causing mutations
arise, we analyze publicly available human and mammalian
genome and aim to uncover the origins of brain diseases.

Specially Appointed Prof.
Kohta YoshidaDept. of Pathology
MissionVisionTo provide the highest quality pathology services and scientific

As an academic pathology department, we aim to deliver aevidence focused on the advancement of developments in thehigh degree of professionalism in clinicopathological diagnostic

field of neuropathology.

services and neuropathology research, utilizing comprehensive
and innovative approaches and building departmental
competence to meet the needs of patients, institutions, andsociety.
Our approach will involve taking full advantage of opportunities
to advance both the science and practice of neuropathology
through individual and collaborative research, which hopefully willproduce leading practitioners and researchers.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2A2 (CMT2A2) is the second
most common type of CMT, characterized by axonal neuropathy
and optic atrophy. It is caused by mutations in the mitofusin2(MFN2), which encodes a component of the outer mitochondrial
membrane. Although a number of clinical studies have beenreported, the neuropathologic features remain unknown. We
have reported clinicopathologic features and mitochondrial
ultrastructural abnormalities of two autopsied patients with
CMT2A2.

Prof.
Akiyoshi Kakita

6

Dept. of Neurosurgery
We are a clinical department specializing in neurosurgery,methods for brain tumors using cultured cells and xenograft

uniquely affiliated with the Brain Research Institute of Niigata

models, investigating nerve axon regeneration and growth

University. We aim to precisely answer clinical questions throughmechanisms, developing assistive surgical technology to enable

basic and translational research and using the results to improveaccurate simulation for complex neurosurgical cases, andclinical medicine, which has been continued ever since the Brain

education of young neurosurgeons. Additionally, we are exploring

Research Institute was founded. Currently, our clinical focus

non-invasive fluorescence methods and ways to visualize

includes skullbase surgery, endovascular treatment, malignant

intraoperative neural activity, aiming to significantly advance future

brain tumors, epilepsy and functional surgery in collaborationneurosurgical treatments. Our clinical environment offers a uniquewith the National Nishiniigata Chuo Hospital. The main research

opportunity to consult with top researchers at the Brain Researchareas we are currently investigating include: elucidating treatment

Institute on experimental methods and related matters.

Prof.
Makoto Oishi

Dept. of Neurology /Dept. of Molecular Neuroscience
The Niigata University Brain Research Institute possesses not

Up to now, we established entities of novel brain diseases andonly a basic neuroscience branch but also a clinical neuroscienceelucidated their etiologies and disease mechanisms by genetic,

branch: Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery. Thus, thebiochemical, and histological approaches.

aim of our Institute is to overcome brain diseases. We study a

We have also educated a large number of neurologists. Careful

wide variety of brain diseases by using genetic, biochemical, cell

observation of patients by the excellent neurologists brought us

biological, histological, and imaging approaches, in collaboration

fruitful success in a new discovery. Our research is attributablewith other departments in the Institute.

to the support of patients and clinicians, and we will keep tightIn the past 50 years, we have produced favorable results ofconnection with them.

clinical and basic research. In the beginning, we revealed Niigata

Neurologists need comprehensive knowledge of medicine and a

Minamata and SMON diseases, which are caused by toxic

wide range of social skills including communication, leadership,

reagents, making us to have profound connections with society.

and problemsolving skills. We actively train young doctors toacquire the knowledge and skills to become a specialist in
various fields from a cutting-edge basic neuroscience to practicalneurology. We are professional for brain diseases and will ensure
the best possible support for our patients.

We conducted a multicenter, investigator-initiated clinical trialfrom 2020 to 2022 to evaluate a treatment for spinocerebellar
degeneration type 6 (SCA6), an inherited disorder that commonlyoccurs in Japan and for which the development of an effective
treatment is anticipated. The clinical trial has been successfullycompleted according to the planned timeline, and the results will
be published in due course.

Prof.
Osamu Onodera

Dept. of Biological Magnetic ResonanceC o n tin u o u s te c hnol ogi c a l d e v e l op me nt re p re sen ts anof Biological Magnetic Resonance focuses on the research,

indispensable component of the recent remarkabledevelopment and education of magnetic resonance technologies

advancements in the state of our knowledge of human brain

as well as the research and education of human brain function

function. Magnetic resonance is a field which provides a

based on integrated knowledge of advanced engineering andnumber of versatile non-invasive methodologies applicable tonon-linear computational analysis.

the analysis of human specific brain function. The Department

Simulation of brain morphology
The results of numerical simulation with thermal convection as adominant equation.

Prof.
Hironaka Igarashi

7Dept. of Functional Neurology & Neurosurgery
Recent development of in vivo imaging enable us to track

execute the clinical imaging study contributing to finding out

disruption of brain environment, such as abnormal protein

pathological bases of neuropsychiatric disorders, leading todeposition and neuroinflammation in addition to neuronal

the establishing novel techniques of early diagnosis, treatment

function. The aims of our department are to investigate theand prevention, by collaborating with government, industry,watershed between healthy brain aging and brain diseases, andand academic researchers inside and outside Brain Research

to reveal pathological bases of diverse brain disorders using

Institute. As a leading laboratory in this field, we have ambitious

multimodal imaging technique including PET (positron emission

plans to cultivate human resources capable of conducting

tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). We willtranslational study.

Prof.
Hitoshi Shimada

8

Dept. of Molecular Genetics
New anti-amyloid-β antibody drug, Lecanemab was introduced into
clinical practice in 2023, and the therapeutics of dementia in Japan
has entered a new stage. Although clinical diagnosis of dementia
was used to be based on clinical symptoms and morphologicalimaging, biomarkers that reflect brain pathology have become more
important in the diagnostic process of dementia. Disease-modifying
therapy that act directly on the pathological proteins has become
the focus of therapeutic development for dementia. To lead thisparadigm shift, our laboratory has been engaged in research anddevelopment for better clinical practice in dementia. The two pillarsof our laboratory are biomarker development and genomic research.
Using blood and CSF samples collected by various dementia cohort
studies, we have developed biomarkers to reveal the progression ofbrain pathology from preclinical to symptomatic stages. We showedthat the measurement of amyloid-β and phosphorylated tau, whichbiologically define Alzheimer's disease (AD), significantly improved

the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. In addition, neurofilament lightchains, GFAP, and α-synuclein are measured to better understandpathophysiology occurring in brain of dementia patients. In the near
future, blood-based biomarkers will play a major role in the diagnosis
of dementia. We have conducted joint research to develop efficient
blood-based biomarkers by collaborations with industries thatpossess cutting-edge technology. We believe that it is importantto understand dementia based on genomic information. We haveestablished one of the largest dementia genome cohort in Japan.
We are conducting whole genome/exome analysis using nextgeneration sequencer to find genetic risks unique to the Japanese
population. We showed that the polygenic risk score has beensuccessfully adapted to Japanese AD patients to predict the inborn
risk. We also making an effort to promote the implementation ofclinical sequencing and APOE testing to realize genomic medicine
for dementia. Although the environment surrounding dementia
research may changes with the times, we will make progress of ourresearch keeping our mission in mind to contribute to better society
for patients of dementia and their family.

Prof.
Takeshi Ikeuchi

Dept. of Comparative & Experimental Medicine /Dept. of Animal Model Development
Dopamine is thought to play an important role in motor control,

for experiments involving a variety of animals, such as mice, rats,

memory, learning and motivation. We focus on Parkinson's diseaserabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, pigs, Japanese macaques, marmosets,(PD), which is one of the most common neurological disorders

and medaka fish. Moreover, we provide research support using

associated with dopamine dysfunction. As PD animal models,

reproductive biotechnologies such as in vitro fertilization, embryo

we have developed genetically modified mice targeting dopaminetransfer, cryopreservation of embryo and sperm. This support isreceptors and related molecules. Through analyzing the behavior

crucial for maintaining Specific Pathogen-Free (SPF) environment

and neural circuits of these model animals, we aim to elucidate thefor experimental animals and facilitatingrole of dopamine signaling on motor control, learning and memory,

efficient research through planned animal

and to develop a new therapeutic approach for PD. Additionally, we

production. Furthermore, we are advancing

are studying RNA-binding proteins involved in neural circuit formation

the creation of genetically modified animals

and function, as well as the effects of in vitro culture of early-stage

using genome editing technologies, aiming

mouse embryo on individual development.

to promote animal experiments in the

We are responsible for managing the university-wide animal

university.

experimental facility, providing ethical and appropriate environments

Our research efforts are focused on understanding of molecularcompetent embryonic stem cells derived from rat embryos, andmechanisms of higher brain functions such as learning and4) development of basic methods for generation of gene-modified

memory. Making good use of current methods in molecularanimals using gene-editing technology.

biology and developmental engineering, we are now engaged
in the following projects: 1) functional assay of neurotransmitter
receptors and related molecules with gene-targeting techniques,
2) generation andanalysis of animalmodels for humannervous diseases,3) stablishmentof germ line-Prof.
Toshikuni Sasaoka

Dept. of Pathology Neuroscience
The neurosurgeons, neurologists, and neuropathologists ofmedical science through individual and collaborative research by

Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, have performed

using the tissue resource, for understanding pathomechanisms

high-quality clinicopathological practice for over 50 years.

underlying brain disorders.

Through the experience, as an academic pathology department,
we have built a comprehensive collection of human brain tissue
resource obtained from consecutive autopsies and surgicalresections. We take advantage of opportunities to advance theProf.
Mari Tada

9Dept. of Neuroscience of Disease
Neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's

fundamental understanding of the pathophysiology rooted in the

disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Cerebrovascularcomprehension of the physiological functions of molecular factors

diseases including stroke and cerebral hemorrhage, as well asthat underlie these disorders.

Developmental disorders and Mental illnesses, present significant

1. Conquering difficult diseases.

challenges in terms of treatment and management. Many of these

2. Supporting individuals with disabilities.

disorders and disabilities have a high incidence rate and are of

3. Leaving a significant mark on the history of science.

utmost importance both in medicine and in society.

By shedding light on the essence of brain disorders, we aim to

Brain disorders may be perceived as highly complex and uniqueexpand our research achievements to areas such as industry-

to humans. However, various organisms naturally develop brain

academia collaboration, drug development research, anddisorders through aging or other processes similar to humans.

preventive medicine, making substantial contributions to the

For instance, our laboratory has revealed that African killifish

treatment of brain disorders and the promotion of healthy

exhibit a disease state reminiscent of Parkinson's disease

longevity. Furthermore, we actively propose approaches to foster

during aging, leading to numerous insights that contribute to thecoexistence with disabilities and aging.

understanding of novel pathological mechanisms in this disorder.
Cognitive impairment in various animals is also occasionallyreported in news and scientific articles. Furthermore, α-synuclein,a molecular factor implicated in Parkinson's disease, is foundin fish, and the amyloid precursor protein, a molecular factor in
Alzheimer's disease, exists in fish and insects as well.
In our laboratory, we integrate the study of various researchsubjects, primarily focusing on small fish species. We combine
the cutting-edge neuroscience and evolutionary approaches,leveraging the esteemed Brain Bank of our institute, andemploying research methodologies that cannot be replicatedby AI for the next 20 to 50 years. We strive to unravel
the evolutionary origins of brain disorders and establish a

10

Prof.
Hideaki Matsui

MEXT Joint Usage / Research Center

The Collaborative Research Center
for Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders
BRI has been certified as a joint usage/research center by
the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science andTechnology (MEXT) since 2010. Its extensive collectionof brain disease resources and expertise have been
open to the neuroscientists’ community. BRI’s diverse
research collaborations in neuropathology and related
fields have brought out a great deal of achievement
in relation to unravelling the pathological mechanismof brain disease. The institute has renewed its MEXT
certification of a joint usage/research center in 2022
as “the Collaborative Research Center for Neurologicaland Psychiatric Disorders.” BRI has the world-classcollections of neuropathological specimens and advanced
imaging analysis techniques. The institute is committed totackling tasks such as neuropathological analysis on brain
disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, development of early
diagnostic technique, and translational research on thetreatment for reducing disease progression. By utilizing thespecimens of human brain disease and the animal model
resources along with the underpinning of translational

research for clinical application, BRI’s collaboration
with researchers across the world offers a prospect of
reducing the burden of intractable neurological disease.

11
MEXT Education and Research Organization Reform Project

21st Century Brodmann Areas Mapping
Integrating Molecular and Functional Information
The center for industry-academia-government collaboration and human resource
development to complete a “brain map” integrating molecular and functional information in
the brain that will serve as a guidepost for a dementia inclusive society

Overcoming age-related diseases of the brain, such as
Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, is an urgent
issue. In order to develop treatments for these diseases,
it is important to establish diagnostic methods that canaccurately estimate prognosis at an early stage. To doso, we need a map that can serve as a guidepost to
predict the progression of the disease in the brain. This
project aims to develop social implementation and humanresource development in collaboration with industry,
government, and academia, starting with the creationof a new human brain map that will serve as a guide tounderstanding the progression of brain diseases, and to
give back to society through a dementia inclusive society.
To achieve this aim, we are working on the establishmentof cell dispersion technology from human brain tissue,
clearing technology and cell labeling technology for humanbrain tissue, and the creation of function-related maps ofbrain regions using functional MRI.

Medical Practice and Education
BRI’s mission is to advance scientific research on the nervous
system of the brain. BRI has a historical background that hasdeveloped through the clinical care of neurosurgical cases in
the School of Medicine. BRI offering an integrated approach
to its research, along with clinical and educational activities, istherefore a great strength. The research at BRI covers a wide
spectrum from Basic Neuroscience to Clinical Neuroscience
related research to human brain disease. Pathological
Neuroscience that bridges these two areas and the integrated
research of these three areas brings greater progress, making
BRI one of the most desirable institutes for research on brain
disease in Japan. In order to continue to engage in cuttingedge research, BRI is dedicated to training competentresearchers. BRI is also dedicated to research in the clinicalarea to advance medicine.

12

Niigata Junior Doctor
Training School

BRI Endowed Research Branch
Activity Report Meeting

BRI gave science talks in November 2023 as part of the

The 2023 activity report meeting of the Advanced Treatment

master’s program of “the Niigata Junior Doctor Trainingof Neurological Diseases Branch (BRI Endowed Research

School”, a STEM education program aiming at fostering the

Branch), established through a collaboration between Niigata

budding scientists. 36 pupils, from the 5th grade elementary

University and the NSG Group, convened on March 18, 2024.

school to junior high, participated in a lecture session by two

The meeting showcased research accomplishments from

BRI researchers.

April 1, 2023, and outlined activity and project plans for theforthcoming year.

Global Partnerships

Science Education

Global partnerships can bring together complementaryPartnering with the local Super Science High Schools specified

strengths and deepen the impact of joint research. BRI is

by MEXT, BRI scientists visit local highschools to give lecturescommitted to forming such partnerships and will further

on neuro science. BRI is working to nurture the next generation

develop existing partnerships. The institute regularly welcomesof global researchers by introducing the attractive world of

scientific visitors from around the world and signs MOUs andneuroscience.

agreements with overseas research institutions. BRI alsoannually hosts international symposia, which feature fascinating
lectures by distinguished scientists from across the world.

※ 背景のグラデーションは他と合わせて下さい

BRI Map
1 BRI A Block

5

Asahimachi
Research Laboratory Bldg.

9 Genome Science Bldg.

(Center for Integrated Human Brain Science)

2 BRI B Block

6 PET

10 Animal Research Bldg.

3 BRI C Block

7 3 Tesla MRI

11 Development

4 BRI D Block

8 7 Tesla MRI

Office12 Administration(General Administration andDept. of Animal Model

Research Bldg. 1F )BUS STOP

Parking lot
Asahimachidori 2

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7

Aka-mon(main gate)

oko

nza

ka

Parking lot

1

CentralPower
Station

5

8

Sh

3
BUS STOP

2

4

Higashi-nakadori

Yujin
Memorial
Hall

Faculty of Medicine

910Pharmacy

Pedestrians only

Bookstore

West Ward

East Ward

Library

Parking lot

iash
Hig adori →
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Medical & Dental Hospital
Central Wing

Parking lot

Parking lot

Outpatient Wing

West Wing

Amenity
BUS STOP Mall

Parking lot
Niigata Daigaku
Byoin

Faculty of DentistryN

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Higashinakadori →Ikoi Park

Life
Innovation
Hub

Parking lot

Gakkocho
Niigata University
Hos.

Niigata
City Office