LIFESCAPES Selected for AMED's FY2026 'Bridging Research Program'

LIFESCAPES Inc. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; CEO: Junichi Ushiba; hereinafter 'LIFESCAPES') announces that its research and development project utilizing Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology has been selected for the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)'s FY2026 'Bridging Research Program'. This project will be implemented as a physician-led clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an innovative neurorehabilitation approach for severe upper limb functional impairment following stroke, with Hokkaido University as the supporting institution and Professor Masahiko Mukano of the university serving as the principal investigator.

■ Overview of the Selected R&D Project

Program Name: Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED) FY2026 'Bridging Research Program'

Project Title: 'Physician-Led Clinical Trial on the Efficacy and Safety of Brain-Computer Interface for Severe Upper Limb Functional Impairment After Stroke'

Supporting Institution: Hokkaido University

Principal Investigator: Professor Masahiko Mukano, Hokkaido University

■ Objectives of the Program

AMED's 'Bridging Research Program' is a research and development support initiative aimed at rapidly translating outstanding research results from universities and other institutions into clinical practice and practical applications (social implementation). The selected project is a physician-led clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of interventions using Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) technology for severe upper limb functional impairment after stroke. By applying BCI technology—which reads brain signals to support rehabilitation—to patients with severe paralysis who have shown limited recovery with conventional rehabilitation approaches, this project aims to establish a new treatment option and improve patients' motor function.

■ Future Outlook

Building on this selection, LIFESCAPES will strengthen collaborations with medical and research institutions, including Hokkaido University, to accelerate the generation of robust scientific evidence and the practical implementation of these technologies in clinical settings. LIFESCAPES will continue to contribute to improving the quality of life for patients with severe paralysis after stroke through the research and development of cutting-edge neurorehabilitation medical devices utilizing BCI technology.

🔗 Related Link (AMED Grant Selection Information)

https://www.amed.go.jp/koubo/03007/01/C_00001.html

■ About LIFESCAPES

LIFESCAPES is a medical device startup originating from Keio University, engaged in the research and development of neurorehabilitation medical devices and related services based on Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) technology. The company aims to address unmet medical needs in the field of central nervous system disorders, particularly upper limb paralysis after stroke, by providing innovative treatment options.

Links

Official Website: https://lifescapes.jp/

Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lifescapes2018

Official LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifescapes-bci/

Official X: https://x.com/LIFESCAPES_BMI

■ Contact

PR Office: Kimoto (kimoto@mikupr.co.jp)