About PMC
Toward the Real-World Implementation
of Precision Medicine
The Research and Development Center for Precision Medicine (PMC) is Japan’s first comprehensive omics analysis center aimed at the social implementation of precision medicine. Using state-of-the-art genome analysis and mass spectrometry systems in conjunction with a humanoid general-purpose fully automated mouthpiece, the center conducts scientifically evidence-based diagnosis of diseases such as cancer and various congenital metabolic disorders, and elucidates their onset mechanisms. The center also collaborates with the Tsukuba Preventive Medicine Research Center, a comprehensive health checkup facility that combines preventive and proactive medicine research functions. Through collaborative research with leading research institutions both domestically and internationally, the center aims to conduct foundational research and implement “precision medicine” (personalized precision medicine) that leads to the selection of optimal treatments and medications for each individual.
Message
On January 1, 2017, the University of Tsukuba established the Research and Development Center for Precision Medicine as Japan’s first omics analysis hub integrating whole-genome sequencing, metabolome analysis, and proteome analysis.
Against the backdrop of Japan’s already super-aged society, there is a strong demand in the country for the establishment of cutting-edge preventive medicine aimed at realizing a society of healthy longevity and improving quality of life (QOL). In addition, diseases whose incidence increases with age, such as cancer and dementia, have led to a substantial increase in social insurance and medical costs borne by the government and the public. They have also contributed to a growing number of patients who are unable to access advanced cancer treatments and other state-of-the-art medical care, making these issues serious social challenges not only in Japan but also overseas.
Meanwhile, the development of systems such as high-performance technologies and instruments that enable ultra-early diagnosis through cutting-edge innovations in life science is progressing at a pace beyond imagination. In this context, timely real-world implementation has become an important challenge.
At our Center, we will promote foundational research for evidence-based disease diagnosis and personalized medicine, while actively pursuing collaborative research and personnel exchange with the University of Tsukuba Hospital, leading research institutions in Japan and overseas, and hospitals practicing precision medicine.
April 1, 2026
Takaaki Sato
Director
Research and Development Center
for Precision Medicine
Division of Collaborative Research
University of Tsukuba
Mission
To establish a hub for personalized precision medicine through industry–government–academia collaboration,
powered by the introduction of a next-generation, ultra-high-throughput human whole-genome sequencing system
at the University of Tsukuba.
Organization
Research and Development Center
for Precision Medicine
(Organizational Structure Overview)
