Immunotherapy in Japan

Japan’s Progress in Immune Cell Therapy

Japan’s journey with immune-based treatments dates back to the 1970s, providing nearly five decades of continued research. A major breakthrough came in 1992 when Dr. Tasuku Honjo discovered PD-1, an inducible gene on activated T lymphocytes—a milestone that garnered attention from the global medical community.  

By the 1990s, Dr. Yoichi Kato had already begun leveraging immune cell therapies for cancer patients, publishing numerous papers and clinical reports. Rapid advancements ensued in the early 2000s, culminating in 2006 when the Japanese government recognized immune cell therapy as a standard approach for cancer treatment. Ever since, Dr. Kato has applied immune cell therapy to a vast range of tumors—even those in advanced or metastatic stages—and has accrued over 20 years of clinical expertise, making him one of Japan’s leading figures in the field.

Dr. Yoichi Kato

The 2018 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine: Dr. Tasuku Honjo

In 2018, Dr. Tasuku Honjo was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine alongside James P. Allison, honoring their pioneering work in immunotherapy. Dr. Honjo’s discovery paved the way for the “PD-1” class of immunotherapy drugs, approved by the U.S. FDA in 2014. This medical breakthrough has delivered hope to countless patients worldwide, expanding treatment options and improving outcomes.

Dr. Tasuku Honjo

Dr. Yoichi Kato: Japan’s Foremost Authority in Immune Cell Therapy

Dr. Yoichi Kato is an experienced oncologist and medical doctor who played a pivotal role in developing and refining immune cell therapy. From 1995 to 1999, he led immunotherapy research at Japan’s esteemed National Cancer Center (NCCJ), conducting extensive clinical treatments. In 2008, he established the Shin-Yokohama Kato Clinic, which has since amassed a vast number of cases. With over 2,000 documented immune cell therapy treatments, Dr. Kato has achieved a 68% effectiveness rate in late-stage cancer—including an 8% complete remission (CR) rate in tumor eradication.

Shin-Yokohama Kato Clinic: Leading the Way in Advanced Immunotherapy

Founded by Dr. Kato, the Shin-Yokohama Kato Clinic offers a full array of cutting-edge immunotherapy protocols, including dendritic cell therapy, LAK cell therapy and NK cell therapy. The clinic houses an on-site laboratory for cultivating, processing, and activating patient-derived immune cells, ensuring real-time precision and quality control.

As a member of Japan’s prestigious Advanced Medicine Association, the clinic meets rigorous standards for delivering safe, high-quality, and innovative treatment. Only five oncology specialists and clinics across Japan hold this certification, which requires a minimum of 10 years’ experience in advanced medical research and endorsements from at least two equally qualified physicians.