Japan Cell, Regenerative Therapy Environment ‘Exciting’ But Ongoing Dialog Needed

04 Apr 2019

While the environment for cell and regenerative medicines in Japan is ‘exciting’ and positive, ongoing dialog with policy makers and regulators is needed to ensure a reflection of industry and patient concerns, one CEO says.

3D illustration of T cells attacking a cancer cell (CAR-T cell therapy) - Illustration — CELL AND REGENERATIVE MEDICINE ISSUES COMING TO FORE IN JAPAN • Source: Shutterstock

It is an exciting time for cell, gene and regenerative therapies in Japan, helped by a much improved and highly supportive regulatory environment. But continuing discussions with regulators are essential if industry concerns, particularly in the pricing area, are to be reflected in policy, stresses the CEO of Athersys Inc.

Dr Gil Van Bokkelen, chairman and CEO of the US stem cell venture, is generally optimistic on the present environment...