News Source：http://health.sina.com.cn/news/2023-07-24/doc-imzcuuiu0786539.shtml

Japan has long been at the forefront of immunotherapy, having initiated research in the 1970s and steadily advancing to become a global leader in the field. Dr. Yoichi Kato established the Shin-Yokohama Kato Clinic in 2008 and has since amassed one of the largest clinical databases of immunocellular therapies in Japan. With over 25 international journal publications and several authored books, Dr. Kato is a recognized authority whose expertise spans both research and real-world clinical applications.

Dr. Yoichi Kato

Immunocellular Therapy: A Novel Approach with Minimal Side Effects

Immunocellular therapy harnesses the patient’s own immune cells to target malignant tumors. Compared to traditional chemotherapy or radiotherapy, it causes fewer side effects while offering substantial therapeutic benefits, particularly for advanced-stage patients. Data from the Shin-Yokohama Kato Clinic indicate that among late-stage cases receiving Dr. Kato’s immunotherapy, 68% experienced tumor shrinkage, and 8% achieved complete remission, meaning the tumors vanished entirely.

Dr. Kato’s experience is rooted in multiple immunotherapeutic avenues, including dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, LAK cell vaccines, and high-dose NK cell therapy. He also specializes in PD-1 checkpoint strategies to reinforce the immune response. Under his guidance, the clinic has successfully treated numerous late-stage patients, some previously deemed untreatable, yet achieving marked improvement or even full recovery through immunotherapy. Notably, Dr. Kato insists on personally consulting and treating every patient. To meet growing demands, he is constructing a new hospital facility slated to open in April 2024.

Multi-Antigen Approach: Addressing 22 Types of Tumors

Dr. Kato tailors each treatment regimen by selecting the most suitable antigens for each patient’s condition. One of the most commonly used antigens is the WT-1 peptide, which targets 22 different types of tumors, especially pancreatic cancer. For example, combining WT-1 dendritic cell vaccines with the chemotherapy drug Gemcitabine has shown enhanced efficacy against pancreatic tumors.

Collaboration with “Asia Immunotherapy” to Expand Access

In April 2022, Hong Kong’s Asia Immunotherapy Center formalized a partnership with Dr. Kato to introduce immunocellular therapy to Hong Kong. During this period, Asia Immunotherapy set up a clinic in Tsim Sha Tsui, providing patients direct access to the latest immunotherapy options and facilitating visits to Japan for Dr. Kato’s specialized treatments.

This marks a new era for patients and healthcare providers alike, as Japan’s cutting-edge immunocellular therapy brings fresh hope and broader treatment options. It is important to note that immunotherapy is not intended to replace traditional therapies. Instead, it complements existing treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, improving survival rates, boosting cure rates, and mitigating the side effects often associated with conventional cancer treatments.

Dr. Kato with Marcus Lam—Operations Director at Asia Immunotherapy