Research Themes｜JST Moonshot Research and Development Program Goal 9 Research and Development Project「epismile 2050」

Project 1

R&D Item 1-1
Elucidation of the Biological Mechanisms Determining the Quality of Stress and Establishment of the Basis for Stress Conversion Technologies: We aim to clarify the biological mechanisms that distinguish “bad stress,” which increases the risk of depression and suicide among children and youth who have experienced adversity, from “good stress,” which builds resilience. By examining blood and brain cells, we will develop technologies that transform stress in a positive direction without exacerbating it, thereby laying the foundation to protect the mental health of children and youth.

R&D Item 1-2
Cross‑Species Elucidation of the Biological Mechanisms of Depression and Reduced Resilience in Childhood Abuse and Adverse Environments: We aim to clarify, through changes in the brain and immune system, why children who have experienced harsh environments such as abuse are more likely to suffer from depression or mental vulnerability as adults. We also focus on individuals with autism, exploring mechanisms to protect mental health through blood and brain examinations, thereby contributing to building a society where children can overcome adversity.

R&D Item 2-1
Development of Integrated Indicators of Stress and Resilience（Epi‑Stress & Epi‑Resilience）Using the Epigenome: We will develop new indicators that objectively measure the stress and resilience of children and youth using epigenome analysis of blood samples. This technology will enable the early identification of risks for depression and suicide, facilitate support to protect mental health, and contribute to realizing a society where children can grow up with peace of mind.

R&D Item 2-2
Development of Visualization Technology for Mental States through Brain Function Imaging Evaluation using AMPA/MRI: Using brain imaging examinations such as MRI and AMPA-PET, we visualize the brain states of young people who have experienced abuse or severe stress and identify brain changes linked to mental distress. We also explore related shifts in brain activity (EEG) and biological biomarkers. Through this, we aim to develop easy-to-use techniques to measure mental states, allowing early detection of depression and suicide risk and helping connect individuals to timely support.

R&D Item 3-1
Development of Safe, Secure, and Effective Human Interaction Technologies: We will develop safe and easy-to-understand methods for presenting data on mental and physical states so that children and youth can receive it with peace of mind. By using wearable sensors and AI-based visualizations, we aim to foster positive feelings and create mechanisms that support mental health in everyday life.

R&D Item 4-1
ELSI for Social Cultivation and Social Implementation toward Intergenerational Integration: In order to promote the broad use of new mental health technologies in society, we will identify issues from ethical, legal, and social perspectives and consider solutions. By creating opportunities for dialogue between citizens and experts and establishing mechanisms that ensure safe and reliable use, we aim to realize a society where everyone, from children to adults, can protect their mental health.