The bio industry field is expected to see massive growth. However, today the field still requires fundamental technology innovation. For example, in the
agriculture, forestry, and fishing industries are in need of simple, accurate genetic testing methods and supersensitive detection to prevent pandemic spread of
infectious diseases. Preventative medicine is in need of supersensitive detection of disease markers to detect and monitor the progression of severe diseases
such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. And, bioengineering field requires technology for the rapid development of super enzymes that outperform natural
enzymes and technology for synthesizing custom-designed artificial cells for industrial use. Through this project, we will achieve discontinuous innovation with
an artificial cell reactor that enables new bioengineering. Specifically, we will advance development in three stages (Measure, Create, and Proliferate) based on
the degree of molecular integration and purpose. We will create compact, supersensitive diagnosis systems, super enzymes capable of high-speed biomass
processing, and bio technology based on artificial cells capable of auto-reproduction. We will then present society with practical applications for these technologies.
Keys of the Implementation Structure
- Strategic implementation expertise: social implementation /technology assistants
- Project 1: Corporate group truly interested in immediate practical application
(Research activities close to the practical applications stage)
- Project 2: Collaboration between industry and academia team aiming for entrepreneurial ventures
(Expertise in enzyme evolution technologies, industrial applications)
- Project 3: Ambitious academic team developing artificial cell technologies
(Technologies necessary for artificial genome synthesis, replication and “boot up”)
- Development of fundamental technologies: Technological core for the projects
(Reduction of the technical burden on each project)
Approach to selection of institutions
- Enthusiasm and proven track record, as necessary for a quick, short-term program
- An institutional identity directed at some targeted industry
- PM related personnel are only to be selected from entities that possess some indispensable technology
Organization
The Cabinet Office
ImPACT: Artificial Cell Reactor Technology for an Enriched and Secure Society and New Bioengineering
Hiroyuki Noji
Associate Program Manager
Kazuhito Tabata
Associate Program Manager
Etsuo Maeda
Associate Program Manager
Takeshi Touhara