The Ryozo Nagai Distinguished Lecture in KLF Research

The Ryozo Nagai Distinguished Lecture in KLF Research is being established to honor Professor Ryozo Nagai’s extraordinary scientific achievements and his foundational role in creating a global community dedicated to understanding Krüppel-like factors (KLFs) in biology and disease.

Professor Nagai has pursued scientific excellence throughout a distinguished career spanning basic, translational, and clinical research. Among his seminal contributions was the isolation and characterization of BTEB2, now known as KLF5, and the demonstration that KLF5 is induced in smooth muscle cells and myofibroblasts in response to stress and regulates tissue remodeling. His subsequent studies established important roles for KLF5 in cardiovascular remodeling, cardiac hypertrophy, inflammation, renal injury, and interorgan communication. His remarkable scientific record includes more than 1,000 publications, and his contributions have been recognized with major honors, including Japan’s Purple Ribbon Award and the European Society of Cardiology Gold Medal.

Professor Nagai’s legacy extends far beyond his own discoveries. He recognized that this emerging field could advance more rapidly through collaboration, scientific exchange, and a shared commitment to excellence. In 2008, he helped organize the first Symposium on the Biology of Krüppel-like Factors at the University of Tokyo, bringing together investigators whose discoveries were defining the field. This initiative became the foundation for an international conference series and a growing global network of KLF and Sp researchers. His scientific vision, leadership, and personal warmth have helped foster collaborations and friendships that continue to strengthen this international community.

The Ryozo Nagai Distinguished Lecture will preserve and extend this legacy by recognizing outstanding scientists whose work exemplifies excellence, innovation, and transformative contributions to KLF research. It will provide a prominent international forum for sharing important discoveries while inspiring future generations of investigators.
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Through your support, we seek to establish this Lecture as an enduring tribute to a scientist whose vision helped transform individual discoveries into a vibrant international research community. Professor Nagai’s name and legacy will remain permanently associated with scientific excellence, collaboration, mentorship, and the advancement of KLF research toward understanding life and improving human health.