Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Otsuka), together with Dr. Keisuke Kataoka, head of the Division of Molecular Oncology at the National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan (National Cancer Center Japan) and concurrently professor in the Division of Hematology at the Keio University School of Medicine (Keio University), are pleased to announce that they have received the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award at the 8th Japan Medical Research and Development Grand Prize award ceremony, in recognition of their work on the development of a gene panel test for hematological malignancies.

The award ceremony was held on January 16 at the Prime Minister's Office, where the certificate and commemorative plaque were presented.

Achievement

Dr. Keisuke Kataoka (National Cancer Center Japan and Keio University), Dr. Seishi Ogawa (Kyoto University)*, and Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. jointly developed HemeSight, a gene panel test targeting hematologic malignancies. This panel enables more precise diagnosis, informed treatment selection, and accurate prognosis and prediction, contributing to the advancement of personalized medicine for patients with these conditions.

*Dr. Ogawa made significant contributions to the development of this panel test, but was not eligible for this award, having received the Medal with Purple Ribbon in 2018.

Overview

Cancer gene panel tests have historically received regulatory approval only for solid tumors, with no approvals for other indications in Japan or internationally. In September 2024, HemeSight received manufacturing and marketing approval in Japan as the first comprehensive genomic profiling test for hematologic malignancies and related disorders. In March 2025, it became the first such test for these diseases to be covered by health insurance anywhere in the world.

About Otsuka

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a total healthcare company that focuses on each individual's potential to enhance their well-being. Our medical-related business provides treatments and diagnostics for both physical and mental health. Our nutraceutical business supports daily health maintenance and improvement. Otsuka's unique products and services are based on scientific evidence, under the guidance of our corporate philosophy: Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide.

For further information, please visit: www.otsuka.co.jp/en/