Strengthening Ties in Regenerative Medicine: Reflecting on the Japan–Netherlands Mission

This two-day visit was built on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Nakanoshima Qross and RegMed XB in October 2024, marking one year of collaboration aimed at strengthening international partnerships in regenerative medicine.

Over the course of the visit, the delegation explored key Dutch Regenerative Medicine ecosystems connecting researchers, entrepreneurs, and government representatives to foster knowledge exchange across borders and built trust among the parties.

Day 1 at Leiden and Utrecht

The program began in Leiden, where after welcoming words coming from the Leiden Municipality, we showcased research excellence, collaborations and valorization. Learning amongst others about the Diabetes Moonshot from a scientific point of view, visited the laboratories of the local Pilot Factory lines (LUMC and Necstgen), and zoomed in on valorization and collaboration with Leiden BioScience Park and Innovation Quarters, and Leiden based start-ups Ntrans and Biotactical. 

In the afternoon, the visit continued at Utrecht Science Park, where the delegation explored the thriving Regenerative Medicine Utrecht ecosystem. Welcomed by Province of Utrecht representatives and from the University, the program featured presentations from the Innovation Center for Advanced Therapies (ICAT) (another RegMed XB Pilot Factory pilot lines) and a lab tour of the RegMed XB Osteoarthritis Moonshot, showcasing cutting-edge research.

At both locations, Nakanoshima Qross director Professor Sawa reaffirmed the shared ambition to bridge regenerative medicine innovation between Japan and the Netherlands.

Day 2 at Eindhoven and Maastricht

On the second day, the delegation visited the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) to explore the intersection of regenerative medicine, biomaterials, and engineering innovation. A tight-knitted network of academic research performed at the university and medical center, added value of the RegMed XB Pilot Factory line Smart BioMaterials Consortium (SBMC), and commitment of the Province of Noord-Brabant and Brabants Ontwikkeling Maatschappij (BOM).

The final stop of the delegation was in Maastricht at the MERLN Institute for Technology-Inspired Regenerative Medicine, the founding place of RegMed XB, in Maastricht. With information and presentations about the RegMed XB Diabetes Moonshot and visiting the Brightlands Maastricht Health Campus, with ReGEN Biomedical (one of the RegMed XB Pilot Factory pilot lines), Medace and LIOF.

Official Opening of the Nakanoshima Qross Satellite Office in Utrecht

A milestone moment during the mission was the official opening of the Nakanoshima Qross Satellite Office in Utrecht. Located at the Royal Jaarbeurs Beatrix Building (HI-FIVE) next to Utrecht Central Station, the office will act as a gateway between Osaka and Utrecht. collaboration within. The opening represents an important step in bridging Japan and Europe, driving progress in future medicine and regenerative healthcare, and with the Nationaal Groeifonds (NGF) Life Sciences & Health initiatives as well.

Together, we are building a healthier, regenerative future 

This visit marks a significant milestone in the collaboration between Nakanoshima Qross and RegMed XB, deepening connections established through the 2024 MoU and identifying new opportunities to advance regenerative medicine together. Following this successful mission, we now look forward to continuing the next steps and concrete action points to further strengthen our partnership — from joint research and technology development to education and innovation exchange.