FY2024 Plans of Activities
I. Plans of Major Activities
The bulk of RERF’s research involves long-term follow up studies of atomic bomb survivors
and their children, that take significant time to design and conduct. Ongoing plans for thesestudies have been largely covered under research achievements. Here, we provide highlights ofnew research plans or selected plans of note.
1. Research Projects Examining A-bomb Survivors Health1) Radiation and Cancer:
Updated Life Span Study (LSS) mortality report on cancer and noncancer diseases (RP 175, Sakata): Analysis and publication of LSS Report 15 on mortality among atomic bomb
survivors will be of high priority in the next several years. Compared to Report 14, the newreport will include an additional 16 years of follow up, provide more mortality information
among those who were young at the time of bombing, and will be key to understanding thenature of the curvature of the dose-response relationship shown in Report 14 and the latest
comprehensive cancer incidence study. The new analysis will also provide more
information for non-cancer diseases such as cardiovascular diseases for which suggestive
increased risks were observed in Report 14.

Pathogenesis of MDS (RP1-17, Miyazaki Y and Imaizumi M): A-bomb survivors have ahigh risk of hematological malignancies, but little is known about the mechanisms ofradiation-induced myeloid malignancies. We will further assess differences in mutationalsignatures between expanding and diminishing clones to reveal effects of A-bomb radiationon their mutational process.

Leukemia among A-bomb survivors (RP-P1-23, Yoshida N): We will confirm theapplicability of targeted sequencing in old formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE)
samples. If these samples can be sequenced successfully, we will initiate a full-scale study“Identification of clinicopathological findings associated with radiation dose inhematological malignancies among atomic bomb survivors.”

Hiroshima and Nagasaki tumor/tissue registries (RPs 18-61, 29-60, Sugiyama): Regular
activities in National Cancer Registry and Nagasaki tissue registry will be continued undercontract with each authority. The Dept. of Epidemiology will continue to crosscheck thesubjects of RERF major cohorts against newly registered data with approval from eachauthority. By March 2025, the resource database of LSS cancer incidence will be updatedfor LSS through 2020.

 Pathology studies (RPs 5-89, 1-12, Sakata): The indexing of FFPE tissue specimens withina new database will be continued in collaboration with RERF’s Biosample Research Center.
Efforts to preserve and utilize pathological materials from A-bomb survivors will becontinued in collaboration with local hospitals in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Preparation for Cancer GWAS (RPs P2-22, Hayashi): A final evaluation will be maderegarding whether whole genome amplification of DNA from Adult Health Study (AHS)
blood smears stored over the long term (up to 50 years) is valid for genome-wide1

association study (GWAS) analysis. If the results are positive, a full-scale research planwith an initial focus on cancer outcomes will be developed.
2) Radiation and Non-Cancer Effects:
Atherosclerosis study [RP2-11, RP 1-23-2, Nakamizo T]: To understand the potential
mechanisms by which radiation may promote atherosclerosis, we will continue statisticalanalysis of associations between cytokines, atherosclerosis, and radiation dose. Amanuscript reporting on the reliability and stability of circulating markers is currently insubmission. We will prepare a second manuscript examining the association between
radiation dose, stable cytokines, and atherosclerosis.

Updated Adult Health Study (AHS) report on non-cancer disease (RP2-75, Yamada andOhishi): Preparations are underway for the 9th report of AHS, to examine associations
between various non-cancer diseases and radiation exposure. Compared to Report 8, thenew report will extend follow up to 2020 (vs.1958-1998) and examine twelve additional
disease outcomes including valvular heart disease, hyperparathyroidism, and benign tumorsof the colon and rectum.

Evaluation of radiation-associated Clonal Hematopoiesis (CH) [RP 1-23-1, K. Yoshida]:
Clonal hematopoiesis, in addition to a potential link with hematological pathologies, mayalso be associated with cardiovascular risk. We will complete whole exome sequencing(WES) and T-Cell Receptor (TCR) deep-sequencing analysis of blood cell DNA obtained
from about 150 A-bomb survivors to characterize clonal expansion of hematopoietic stem
cells in high-dose exposed survivors.

3) Genetic Effects of Radiation:
Trio Genome Study [RP 3-23, Uchimura]: Understanding the hereditary genetic effects ofA-bomb radiation has been a long-standing concern for atomic bomb survivors, theirchildren, and the scientific community. To answer this question, we plan to analyze thewhole genome of exposed parents and children (“Trios”). In FY2024, we will complete asmall feasibility study of a few Trios to establish a pipeline for whole-genome sequencing(WGS) and analysis in collaboration with RIKEN and the U.S. NCI. In parallel, we willobtain consent forms (re-consent) from the remaining families and launch the full study
after a public announcement.

See Preparation for Cancer GWAS (RPs P2-22, Hayashi) in Section 1.1; Evaluation ofradiation-associated Clonal Hematopoiesis in Section 1.2.

Clonal Hematopoiesis (CH) in Mice [RP 1-23-3, Kusunoki]: We will evaluate theassociation between CH and persistent inflammation in CH mouse models, including anatherosclerosis mouse model (LDLR-KO) that will investigate the relationship between
radiation-induced CH and cardiovascular disease (CVD) development.

2. Research Projects on the Health of A-bomb Survivors Children (F1)
See Trio Genome Study in Section 1.3.

Mortality surveillance for In Utero and F1 cohorts (RPs 1-75, 2-61, 4-75, Sakata):
Mortality follow-up for all cohorts will continue and the data will be completed through2020. Archiving of early-period materials will continue in collaboration with the Research2

Resource Center of RERF.
F1 Offspring Clinical Study (FOCS), (RP 4-10, Ohishi): In collaboration with theDepartment of Statistics, the analysis of associations of parental radiation exposure withrisk of multifactorial disease in their children using longitudinal study data (2002-2020)
will be continued.

3. Research to Elucidate Individual Radiation Doses and the Effects of A-bombs
 Shielding Survey and Dosimetry (RP 18-59, Sposto): The Department of Statistics willcomplete work on an updated organ dosimetry system using modern, sophisticated J-45
computational phantoms.
 Dosimetry Error (Sposto/Misumi): The Department of Statistics will begin formal reevaluation of the currently utilized methods used to correct random dosimetry error in RERF
analyses. We will investigate the importance of distinguishing between subjects withcomplete vs. average shielding parameters, different shielding scenarios (e.g., insideshielding or outside), and whether the assumed amount of random dosimetry error should beretained. The issue of dosimetry error is a long-standing interest of the Department of
Statistics, and we will be revisiting this issue in light of the revised organ dosimetry, which
will be utilized in the future.
4. Project to Collaborate with Other Scientific Organizations and CommunicateResearch Results
 Continuing collaboration: RERF’s long-term collaboration with numerous Japanese andinternational institutions is expected to continue in 2024, including:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

Partnerships with the Universities of Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Tokyo, Kyoto, Kurume
Collaboration with the U.S. National Cancer InstituteCollaboration with the University of Florida
Collaboration with the University of Washington
Collaboration with Outside Investigators:
47 Japanese Institutions
9 North American Institutions
10 European Institutions
1 Asian Institution Communicating Research Results: In addition to publication of RERF research in peerreviewed academic journals, RERF will contribute to high-visibility reports by international
dosimetry and radiation risk assessment groups such as the United Nations ScientificCommittee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR) and the International
Commission of Radiation Protection (ICRP).
5. Training programs for domestic and overseas specialists
RERF will hold a training course for non-epidemiologist radiation researchers to learn thebasics of epidemiological research and increase understanding of radiation health risks. Inaddition, RERF will train persons capable of working in the fields of radiation protection,
radiation emergency medical care, and radiobiological research. Decisions on whether these3

activities could be held and how they would be held will be made considering the status of
COVID-19 pandemic.
Activity plans for FY2024i) RERF intends to hold an online or in-person epidemiological training course forradiation biologists in Japan to enhance understanding of results from epidemiology
research on A-bomb survivors.
ii) RERF will accept overseas research trainees to support the activities of organizations
such as the International Council for Health Care of the Radiation-exposed (HICARE),
the Nagasaki Association for Hibakusha’s Medical Care (NASHIM), and the Japan
International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
iii) If there are any invitations for the MHLW-sponsored FY2024 International Exchangeand Research Program, RERF will consider accepting physicians and researchers fromoverseas to provide them with training.
iv) The Department of Statistics will apply to the International Fellowships for Research inJapan program, sponsored by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS),
upon application from candidate trainees, and provide research opportunities to young
post-doctoral researchers from various countries.
６. Public Information Programs
From the days of its establishment until the present, RERF has investigated the medical effectsof radiation on atomic bomb survivors and their children. Of utmost importance among
RERF’s public information programs are its efforts to feedback the results of its research
projects to atomic bomb survivors and their children, both of whom have long cooperated inRERF’s research, as well as to the public. To do so, RERF is considering using expert
consulting services to scrutinize and revamp existing public information programs. In
addition, it will plan PR activities for the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings andRERF’s 50th anniversary in 2025, and for the relocation to Hiroshima University’s Kasumi
Campus. In FY2024, RERF will engage in the following public information programs.
i) Communication of Research Results
RERF will engage in a variety of strategic PR activities to broadly communicate its research
results to society. In the interim, it will do its utmost to focus on PR related to spreading
understanding of its genome sequencing study of genetic effects among the A-bomb
survivors, their children, and the community. Some concrete initiatives include public
lectures, study sessions, and information releases on RERF’s official website and throughthe mass media. RERF is also using social media platforms and creating videos ofinterviews and explanations on research conducted by scientists and using digital media toperform other research-related activities. It will consider planning more effective methodsof conveying information while enhancing its relationships with science reporters and othermembers of the media. RERF also plans to consult external PR experts to enhance its
information releases related to research.
ii) Open House
The upcoming Open Houses will be RERF’s first in-person events since COVID-19 waschanged to category 5 under the Act on the Prevention of Infectious Diseases. RERF aims
to increase opportunities for direct dialogue with local residents as much as possible. Fourmembers of the Public Relations & Publications Office will participate in the working
committee consisting of about 25 employees from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which will
enrich the popular content from past events. At the same time, they will also use videos
4related to RERF’s research and facilities created previously to add more content explaining
RERF’s research. RERF will then distribute information highlighting its researchachievements to date, contributions to A-bomb survivors, and the significance of its
upcoming research to develop a more positive view of RERF within the local communities.
iii) Plans for the 80th Anniversary of the Atomic Bombings and RERF’s 50th Anniversary
RERF sees the 80th Anniversary of the Atomic Bombings and RERF’s 50th Anniversary
in 2025 as a chance to relay its research achievements up to now, its contribution to the Abomb survivors, and the significance of its upcoming research activities. It is doing so tofoster trust among the A-bomb survivors, their children, and the communities so that evenmore individuals in Japan and around the world come to know more about it. RERF willplan a number of activities including commemorative symposiums, commemorative
publications, and launch of a special website.
iv) Official Website
Through the “What’s New” section of its official website, RERF will provide
comprehensive information on its activities. Also, it will make the official website moreaccessible by adding more understandable content about its research, including videos.
Hiroshima Laboratory’s relocation is a chance for RERF to update its official website. So,RERF will analyze its current website and devise a plan for its redesign.
v) Facility Tours and School Visits
While noting the status of COVID-19 infections, RERF will present information on its
research achievements to date, its contributions to A-bomb survivors, and the significanceof its upcoming research by receiving visitors and conducting school visits. This will
include more than distributing information—RERF will continue to expand its support baseto ensure its research is appreciated by people from all walks of life: A-bomb survivors,
their children, researchers, government personnel, peace volunteers, academics, students,
members of the communities, overseas visitors, and others.
(Other public relations activities)

Releasing accessible information about research results through press releases
and conferences.

Regularly tracking coverage in the media and planning the maintenance andenhancement of relationships with the media through close contact.

Preparing a synopsis for each paper and communicating research results in anaccessible manner.

Regularly responding to everyday inquiries from outside parties.

Preparing to revise its current PR materials in anticipation of Hiroshima Laboratory’srelocation (handbooks, leaflets, booklets, etc.).

Creating a digital archive of videos and still images of the historically significant
structures of the current Hiroshima Laboratory.

5II. Operation and Management of RERF
1. Research Resource Center
As part of its efforts to preserve RERF's research assets and historical materials, the Research
Resource Section will digitize the negative films of chromosome images and their ledgers
held by the Department of Molecular Biosciences, based on the specifications prepared in
FY2023. In addition, the prioritization of digitization and integration of in-house data will
be carried out based on the policy for digitization and integration of research resources,
which was formulated by the Research Resource Center Operating Committee (RRCOC).
Construction of the integrated research data source will be promoted by linking the researchdatabase currently in operation with the biosample database created by the Laboratory
Information Management System (LIMS) and the consent information database being
created by the Department of Clinical Studies. The Office of Research Support will be newly
established and staffed with hands-on personnel, following which a digital dashboard
created by Tableau Server®, a software product that extracts data from existing digital
information and visualizes it for at-a-glance viewing, will be shared internally.
2. Relocation of the Hiroshima Laboratory
We will proceed with the plan to relocate the laboratory to Hiroshima University’s Kasumi
Campus and aim for construction work to start early by completing the demolition of theexisting building on the campus and the detailed design for the new building.
3. Revision of the rules and regulations
RERF revises the current regulations and establishes new regulations based on revisions tolaws and regulations and regular reevaluation by the sections in charge. In FY2024, required
revisions will be made to keep the foundation’s management operations appropriate. Doingso will provide RERF with regulations befitting of a public interest incorporated foundation
funded by the U.S. and Japanese government subsidies.

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