SAKURA SCIENCE High School Program Group 2
Experiencing a Life Science Lecture and DNA Extraction Experiment at the Kazusa DNA Research Institute
On the afternoon of June 30, 17 Indonesian high school students and 3 accompanying teachers, as well as 10 Taiwanese high school students and 2 supervisors, who were visiting Japan as the second group of the Sakura Science High School Program (SSHP), visited the Kazusa DNA Research Institute in Kisarazu City, Chiba Prefecture. A total of 32 participants took part in the visit.
The group first attended an introductory lecture in the institute's main conference room. Dr. NAGASE Takahiro gave an engaging presentation covering fundamental topics such as “What is DNA?” He also introduced the institute's historic achievement in 1996, when it became the third organization in the world to successfully decode the genome of a living organism by determining the genome sequence of a cyanobacterium. Using slides and quizzes, he explained these scientific concepts and accomplishments clearly and accessibly.
The lecture also highlighted the remarkable advances made in genome analysis, as well as the potential and challenges of genome-editing technologies. The high school students listened attentively, showing great interest in the depth and possibilities of life science research.
During the Q&A session following the lecture, the students enthusiastically posed a variety of questions. Some focused on Dr. NAGASE's career as a scientist, such as “What has been the most interesting event or discovery during your career as a researcher?” Others explored the medical applications of genomics in greater depth, asking questions like “In cases where genome research is used in treating diseases, what specific role does it play? Could you give some examples?”
It was impressive to see the students engaging directly with a leading researcher, driven by their genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn. Their thoughtful questions reflected a strong interest in science and a desire to better understand the real-world impact of life science research.
The group then took part in a hands-on laboratory program. Using extracts prepared from familiar food items such as fish milt (shirako), bamboo shoots, and asparagus, they conducted experiments to extract DNA and observe it firsthand. The students were also introduced to the use of micropipettes, which are specialized laboratory instruments rarely encountered outside research settings. With the concentration and care of professional researchers, they carried out each step of the experiment attentively and precisely.
The program concluded with a guided tour of the institute's facilities, where the participants had the opportunity to explore its state-of-the-art research equipment and laboratories. The students showed great interest in the cutting-edge technologies and research environment, gaining a firsthand glimpse into the world of advanced scientific research.
As the visit came to an end, several students expressed their reluctance to leave when the closing announcement was made, a clear indication of how meaningful and enjoyable they had found the experience. The day provided not only valuable scientific knowledge but also inspiring interactions with researchers and hands-on activities, leaving the participants with lasting memories of their visit to the Kazusa DNA Research Institute.
The students' attentive expressions and enthusiastic smiles as they experienced Japan's cutting-edge DNA research firsthand were a powerful reminder of the promise they hold for a brighter future. The visit also deepened the bonds among participants from different countries and regions, making it a truly memorable day that highlighted the potential of science to connect people across borders and inspire new possibilities for international collaboration.
