The 146th Annual Meeting of the Pharmaceutical Society of Japan (Osaka)

Organizer: Ryo Suzuki (Fac. Pharm. Sci., Teikyo Univ.), Shoko Itakura (Fac. Pharm. Sci., Tokyo Univ. Sci., Res. Inst. Sci. Technol., Tokyo Univ. Sci.)

Recently, the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted by animal cells have been increasingly elucidated, and global efforts to apply them in disease diagnosis and therapy are accelerating. Animal cell-derived EVs are recognized as key mediators of intercellular communication and hold great promises as biomarkers and drug delivery systems (DDS). Meanwhile, membrane vesicles and nanoparticles originating from plants and fungi contain unique natural components derived from their sources and are attracting attention as novel non-animal-derived functional nano-biomaterials. Recent studies have advanced their application in cell activation and disease treatment. However, our understanding of their physicochemical properties and biological responses remains limited, and significant challenges persist for practical implementation, including elucidating mechanisms of action and establishing quality standards.
This symposium will focus on membrane vesicles and nanoparticles of non-animal origin, such as those derived from plants and fungi, and will feature cutting-edge research presented by leading scientists driving studies from functional analysis to pharmaceutical development. Furthermore, from an interdisciplinary perspective, we will discuss prospects for utilizing these materials as innovative functional platforms in next-generation medicine.