Kadinche Corporation, in collaboration with groups from the University of Tokyo Hospital, the Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology at the University of Tokyo, and Sony Computer Science Laboratories, has been selected for the JST Social Technology Research and Development program in the "Social Systems Where Care Takes Root" research area for the project, "Realizing a Care-Circulating Society Centered on Individuals Experiencing Pain During Periods of Transformation."

This project aims to create an inclusive social system where care circulates and takes root by fostering empathy. We focus on "pain during periods of transformation"—the pain experienced when one's physical functions or social roles change. By positioning individuals experiencing this pain as the catalysts for care, we aim to make it easier for everyone to express and accept such pain, thereby circulating care throughout society. To achieve this, we will visualize the need for biopsychosocial support for those experiencing this pain. Simultaneously, we will demonstrate that those providing care—by empathizing with and supporting others—also receive psychosocial care themselves. Through this, we aim to co-create a system where care spreads and becomes deeply embedded in society.

Project Overview

・Project Name
JST RISTEX Social Technology Research and Development Program: "Social Systems Where Care Takes Root"

・Research Project Title
 Realizing a Care-Circulating Society Centered on Individuals Experiencing Pain During Periods of Transformation
 (Investigations toward realization of the care-circulating society orbit around persons with reframing pain)

・Research Team
Principal Investigator: Masahiko Sumitani (Department of Palliative Care, The University of Tokyo Hospital)
Key Co-Researchers: Dai Tamesue (Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo), Ken Endo (Sony Computer Science Laboratories), Takayuki Aoki (Kadinche Corporation)

・Research Period
 4.5 years, from fiscal year 2026 to 2030

・Research and Development Areas and Responsibilities
　・The University of Tokyo Hospital Group
　　　Visualization and social implementation of circular care for physical pain
　・The University of Tokyo, Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology Group
　　　Pain care associated with changes in occupation and roles
　・Sony Computer Science Laboratories Group
　　　Implementation of body-extension engineering care for pain during transitional periods associated with physical changes and loss of bodily function
　・Kadinche Group
　　　Development and support for care visualization using VR and digital technology
　Joint effort by all groups
　　　Promoting social understanding of "pain during transitional periods"

RISTEX FY2026 Newly Selected Project:https://www.jst.go.jp/ristex/info/press/20260930_01.html

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