Profile

Through elucidating the mechanisms of DNA repair, I investigated homologous recombination and developed a technology for inducing partial chromosomal homozygosity, for which I obtained a patent.

Using this technology, I established a system for generating drug-discovery model cells that enables functional analysis of non-coding genomic regions.

Furthermore, I have applied this technology to the HLA region, with the goal of generating ideal cells for regenerative medicine that can be used between genetically related individuals without the need for immunosuppressive drugs.

Profile

Title and Affiliation: Junior Associate Professor at the Department of Health Informatics, School of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University.

Her research focuses on social medicine and public health, with expertise in global health and qualitative methods.

She is currently developing technologies to support the health and healthcare of women going through menopause.

Profile

A fluid dynamics researcher whose core strength lies in fluid simulation. Taking a "dual-track" approach that also encompasses cell culture, I am developing a novel mixing method driven by the rotational motion of the container itself.

By pairing numerical analysis with experiment, I aim to reveal the behavior of flows and reinvent mixing and culturing processe.

Profile

Makiko Maeda, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Osaka.

She develops an AI digital health platform, patent-pending in Japan and internationally (PCT), integrating dose/biomarker prediction and patient education for high-risk medications, starting with warfarin, and is advancing clinical validation and commercialization.

Unlocking the Global Potential of Kansai’s University-Based Startups

Overview

Kansai, Japan—covering Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe—is a hub for world-class university research in life sciences, medtech, AI diagnostics, and medicine. The region’s strong IP assets, medical institutions, and industry ecosystem provide fertile ground for university-based startups.

While these startups excel technologically, they often face challenges in global expansion. Southeast Asia, including Singapore, offers ideal opportunities for collaboration, helping accelerate product development, clinical validation, and market entry.

This session will highlight Kansai’s deep-tech strengths and explore why global investors and corporates should engage with the region’s cutting-edge innovations.

Short Biography

Gwendolin Mah is the Head of International Programmes at MedTech Actuator, where she leads cross-border initiatives that connect innovators, clinicians, and researchers with global opportunities to accelerate healthtech breakthroughs. With a career spanning healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries, Gwendolin brings a unique perspective to building impactful international collaborations.

She has designed and delivered market access programs across Asia-Pacific and Europe, supporting startups and researchers in navigating complex healthcare systems, securing strategic partnerships, and advancing their innovations toward commercialization. Her work has included close collaborations with national universities, hospitals, and government agencies, bridging ecosystems between Japan, Singapore, Australia, and Spain.

Beyond program leadership, Gwendolinactively contributes to the ecosystem through panel discussions, mentoring, and advisory roles. She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing, which strengthens her ability to amplify the visibility and reach of innovators.

Driven by a deep belief in making the world a better place, Gwendolin is especially passionate about advancing health equity. She continues to champion global networks that empower early-stage healthtech ventures to create meaningful, accessible impact on the international stage.