Dr. Takafumi Minamoto, Deputy Director of the Advanced Neuroimaging Center at the Institute for Quantum Medical Science, was invited to deliver a keynote lecture at Cajal Week 2025, held from October 14 to 17 by the Royal National Academy of Medicine of Spain.
Cajal Week is an annual event honoring Dr. Santiago Ramón y Cajal, the Spanish anatomist who received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1906 for his groundbreaking work proposing the "neuron doctrine"—the idea that the central nervous system is composed of individual cells called neurons.
Recognized as a global pioneer in applying chemogenetic technologies to non-human primates, Dr. Minamimoto was invited by the Academy to present his latest research. His lecture highlighted how high-order executive functions such as working memory and decision-making are processed by distinct neural circuits. He also introduced recent advancements in technology development and applied research in the field.
Message from Dr. Minamimoto
“The Royal National Academy of Medicine, founded in the 18th century, has a long and distinguished history, and its member represent the leading experts across all medical field in Spain. It was a great honor to have the opportunity to introduce our research in a ceremony dedicated to Dr. Cajal, the ‘father of modern neuroscience.’ Following the lecture, I received many thoughtful questions from Academy members, including how our findings might contribute to the treatment of neurological disorders. I was pleased to see such strong interest in the future potential of our research.”
Dr. Takafumi Minamimoto receiving a commemorative medal at Cajal Week 2025.
Discussion with Academy members after the keynote lecture by Dr. Takafumi Minamimoto.