Mitsubishi Research Institute, Inc. (MRI) and Astellas Pharma Inc. announced on June 13, 2025, that they have agreed on a memorandum of understanding to provide comprehensive support for Japanese drug-discovery startups seeking global expansion. The partnership aims to strengthen Japan's position as a global hub for drug discovery and foster the growth of startups that can compete internationally.
Strategic Partnership Under MEDISO Framework
The collaboration operates under multiple programs within the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's Medical Innovation Support Office (MEDISO), which addresses the lack of practical application of Japan's advanced life-sciences technologies. Mitsubishi Research Institute has operated MEDISO since 2018, supporting the commercialization of intellectual property for promising drug-discovery startups.
"When it comes to practical application, drug-discovery startups need external insights and expertise," said Hirofumi Suzuki, Executive Officer and General Manager of the Public Innovation Unit at Mitsubishi Research Institute. "Promising startups can substantially speed up the commercialization of their offerings by engaging with globally active pharmaceutical companies early."
Comprehensive Support Infrastructure
The partnership leverages the complementary strengths of both organizations. MRI will draw from its extensive MEDISO experience, having supported over 1,200 startup and academic ventures, to design specific support programs for participants. Astellas Pharma will provide participating drug-discovery startups with access to laboratory and office space at SakuLab-Tsukuba, located on the premises of the Astellas Tsukuba Research Center.
Startups residing in SakuLab-Tsukuba will receive multifaceted support including consultations with Astellas experts across various fields and opportunities to accelerate their drug discovery research through networking with fellow residents and Astellas researchers.
Industry Leadership Commitment
"We are very pleased to agree on a memorandum of understanding with MRI. Astellas Pharma is committed to growing and developing innovative ideas and technologies with academia and startups by providing knowledge and experience gained through research and our global network," said Tadaaki Taniguchi, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Research & Development Officer of Astellas Pharma. "We expect that the signing of this MoU will further strengthen and accelerate drug discovery research by Japanese startups, ultimately leading to the creation of innovative medical solutions."
Policy Alignment and Global Impact
The initiative aligns with Japan's Basic Policy on Economic and Fiscal Management and Reform 2024, which aims to improve domestic research and development environments while encouraging participation of global pharmaceutical companies and venture capitalists in building a robust drug discovery ecosystem. The support will provide Japanese drug-discovery startups with early access to pharmaceutical-industry insights, enabling them to chart paths toward successful global development and potential out-licensing.
"We are pleased to partner with Astellas Pharma to support startups under the MEDISO initiative, and we are sure that this will be a groundbreaking step for Japan's drug discovery ecosystem," said Suzuki. "We are committed to leveraging the strengths of both companies to swiftly deliver innovative pharmaceuticals to patients in Japan and globally."
Future Expansion Plans
Moving forward, MEDISO aims to collaborate with domestic and international business partners to support the global expansion of Japanese drug-discovery startups while encouraging global investors to invest in Japan's burgeoning drug discovery field. The partnership represents a strategic approach to bridging the gap between Japan's advanced life sciences capabilities and their translation into globally competitive therapeutic solutions.
