Overview
In 2019, the Department of Hematology is newly established within the Kochi University, as a dynamic center for patient care, basic and translational research, and teaching in the field of benign and malignant hematology. The Department of Hematology is led by professor Kensuke Kojima, who is a respected hematologist and a pioneer in bench-to-bedside translation of novel cancer therapeutics primarily targeting p53 signaling. His research papers have been cited in > 1,000 papers, mainly in the field of cancer therapeutics, suggesting a critical impact on translational research in hematology/oncology. Professor Kojima believes that case reports should add valuable information to our medical knowledge in the current era of evidence-based practice, and has continuously encouraged young physicians to write academic papers, leading to > 50 published case reports. Since productive opportunities in hematology require engagement in collaborative global investigation, we are working with world-class universities and hospitals, especially with the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
Our department originates from the third Department of Internal Medicine, which was founded in 1981. The first professor Isao Miyoshi is one of the highly respected researchers on Human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I), which is now established as a causative agent of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL). The linkage between ATL and HTLV-I was proven by Dr. Miyoshi and his colleagues, demonstrating the presence of an antibody against HTLV-I in patient sera. Professors Hirokuni Taguchi and Akihito Yokoyama succeeded Professor Isao Miyoshi as chairs, growing the academic department.
We continue to pursue our mission to provide state-of-the-art patient care and comprehensive education to students, trainees and hematologists through dynamic research, with perseverance and vigor.
