Nitto Denko Group CSR & Annual Report 2011

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CSR & Annual Report 201125can recognize the “makebelieve” three-dimensional display only when the projected image is viewed horizontally. When the human head moves vertically, the projection cannot be perceived as three-dimensional. With the newly developed display method, the output can be viewed from both horizontal and vertical angles, which gives a more natural image perception. Unlike other conventional methods, the new method projects an image that human eyes can perceive as three-dimensional even when they are looking up from a lying position. The novel display technology, which is known as a full parallax, may lead to the realization of a further enhanced state of three-dimensional imaging in the future.2. Future Prospects for DevelopmentThe newly developed photorefractive three-dimensional image method can be applied in areas including image recognition, medical imaging, and optical communication materials. For instance it can be applied to creating three-dimensional maps, three-dimensional rendering of the surgical site during operations, and three-dimensional modeling for mock-up designs for vehicles and machines. The ultimate goal is a three-dimensional television able to project a three-dimensional image that makes it look as if the object itself is protruding from the screen in front of our eyes. The article in the recent issue of Nature also reports the possibility of remote three-dimensional videoconferencing (3D tele-presence). Going forward, efforts will be intensively directed toward development of a range of devices.Nitto Denko to Develop siRNA Drugs with US Company Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Aiming for the swift commercialization of drugs for fibrotic diseasesOn July 4, 2010, Nitto Denko concluded a contract with US pharmaceutical company Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Quark) for the development of therapeutic drugs for treating fibrotic diseases such as cirrhosis of the liver. 1. Fusion of Global Technologies to Realize New Therapeutic DrugssiRNA (small interfering RNA) is known to control the expression of target genes using ribonucleic acid (RNA) with specific sequences. When this siRNA is delivered to certain cells, it inhibits the production of molecules that cause disease. As such it is receiving much attention as a revolutionary new way of potentially treating diseases that up until now have been said to be incurable. Since 2008, Nitto Denko has been working with Professor Yoshiro Niitsu of Sapporo Medical University, who developed technology for treating fibrotic diseases such as liver cirrhosis, to design drugs, verify therapeutic efficacy and clarify the therapeutic mechanism. The company entered into the agreement with Quark, which has a proven track record in siRNA drug development, in order to push ahead with the development of therapeutic drugs for treating fibrotic diseases such as liver cirrhosis. By combining our proprietary drug delivery technology and fibrotic disease treatment concept with Quark’s hands-on know-how, Nitto Denko Group hopes to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by 2012 and to eventually develop treatments to help the many people throughout the world who suffer from these conditions.2. About Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Established in 1993 and with its headquarters in Fremont, California, Quark has a research and development facility in Israel and a staff of approximately 100. During its early years it accumulated an extensive range of genetic information concerning a wide range of conditions and during the 2000s commenced drug discovery activities. The company currently has five clinical trials in the pipeline for conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema and acute renal failure, and is one of the world’s leading companies in the field of siRNA drug development.The project team consisting of Prof. Niitsu and staff from Nitto Denko Group and Quark Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

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