Tadamitsu Kishimoto

Crafoordpriset 2009-press conference 07

Tadamitsu Kishimoto (born May 7, 1939) is a prominent Japanese immunologist known for his discovery of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune response. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of the immune system and the development of treatments for various autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.

Early Life and Education

Tadamitsu Kishimoto was born in Osaka, Japan. He pursued his medical degree at Osaka University, where he later completed his Ph.D. in medical science. His early research focused on the mechanisms of the immune system, particularly the role of cytokines in immune responses.

Career and Research

Kishimoto began his career as a researcher at Osaka University, where he eventually became a professor. His groundbreaking work in the 1980s led to the discovery of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a cytokine involved in inflammation and the maturation of B cells. This discovery has had a profound impact on the field of immunology and has paved the way for new therapeutic approaches to treat autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Castleman's disease.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6)

IL-6 is a multifunctional cytokine that plays a role in the immune response, inflammation, and hematopoiesis. Kishimoto's research demonstrated that IL-6 is involved in the differentiation of B cells into antibody-producing cells and the activation of T cells. This cytokine is also implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases and cancers.

Therapeutic Applications

The discovery of IL-6 has led to the development of targeted therapies, such as tocilizumab, an IL-6 receptor inhibitor used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Kishimoto's work has thus had a direct impact on clinical practice and patient care.

Awards and Honors

Tadamitsu Kishimoto has received numerous awards for his contributions to medical science, including the Japan Academy Prize, the Robert Koch Prize, and the Lasker-DeBakey Clinical Medical Research Award. He is also a member of several prestigious scientific organizations, including the National Academy of Sciences and the Japan Academy.

Personal Life

Kishimoto is married and has children. He continues to be active in research and mentoring young scientists in the field of immunology.

See Also

• Immunology
• Cytokine
• Autoimmune disease
• Inflammation
• Osaka University