New experimental evidence demonstrates that discrete space-time crystals can be realized in classical soft-matter systems, thereby moving beyond the traditional complexities of quantum mechanics.

A tandem neural network capable of inferring key physical parameters of semiconductor materials from simple transistor measurements has been developed, as reported by researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo. While conventional approaches for this type of analysis require hours or even days, the proposed system produces results in under one millisecond with near-perfect accuracy.

CADASIL, an inherited disease caused by mutations in the NOTCH3 gene, damages the brain’s small blood vessels, leading to strokes, cognitive decline, and early dementia. Despite decades of research, its underlying disease mechanisms remain poorly understood due to the lack of suitable disease models. To tackle this issue, researchers have developed the world’s first zebrafish model of CADASIL, which reproduces several key features of the disease. Their findings will help identify potential therapeutic targets. 

Sjögren disease, an autoimmune disease characterized by dry mouth and dry eyes, may reduce patients’ quality of life. While CD4⁺ T cells are key drivers of immune-mediated tissue damage and chronic inflammation, the role of pathogenic CD4⁺ T cell subsets and their non-immune cell partners remains unexplored. Researchers have now identified the preferential CD4⁺ T cell-fibroblast cellular interaction that amplifies inflammatory proteins and tissue damage, representing a potential target for therapeutic intervention in Sjögren disease.

Japanese researchers have developed an edible agent capable of social interaction through vocalizations and movement, and examined mind perception of the edible agent. In an online survey with 1,094 participants, different vocalizations and behaviors modulated mind perception of the edible agent, while no significant relationship was observed between mind perception and either reluctance to eat or guilt. This study offers a new experimental tool for investigating human perception in human-food interaction and the psychological and ethical aspects of eating.

Human fetal tissue research has contributed significantly to our understanding of human development and continues to support progress in regenerative medicine. However, the use of fetal tissue obtained following induced abortion raises important ethical considerations. In 2022, the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) published standards for obtaining informed consent for fetal tissue donation. At present, Japan has no laws or guidelines that specifically govern fetal tissue research.

A research group led by Professor Misao Fujita, Professor Mitinori Saitou, and Professor Yasuhiro Takashima of the Institute for the Advanced Study of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi) and the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA) at Kyoto University has examined the ethical, legal, and social issues surrounding human fetal tissue research in Japan. Drawing on an analysis of legal frameworks, regulations, and social contexts in Japan and other countries, the authors identified three key challenges in applying the ISSCR standards domestically: (1) minimizing burdens on potential donors; (2) determining the role of male partners in decisions regarding fetal tissue donation; and (3) addressing legal uncertainties surrounding the storage, use, and disposal of fetal tissue. The study proposes possible approaches to each of these issues.

These findings were published online in Regenerative Medicine on 11 June 2026.

As the world economy is upended by the attacks on Iran by the US and Israel, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine entered its fourth year without a ceasefire in sight, it’s impossible to know what will happen next in today’s global society. Even the UN, the international organization established to maintain peace, has fallen into a state of dysfunction due to the actions of these permanent members of the Security Council, with no solution to be found. We sat down with Professor HAYASHI Mika of the Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies, an expert in international law, to hear more about the role of international law in these chaotic times and how the international community should respond.