JTEC panel report on bioprocess engineering in Japan

摘要

The Japanese Technology Evaluation Center (JTEC) panel on bioprocess engineering visited Japan from February 17 to 23, 1991. The mission and goals of this panel are summarized. They are: (1) To assess the present status of bioprocess engineering and biotechnology in Japan; (2) to project trends in biotechnology research and development in Japan; (3) to compare present biotechnology advancements in the United States and Japan; and (4) to assess major differences in biotechnology research and development between the United States and Japan. The selection of the panel and other members of the study team was based on the expertise needed as well as the requirement to include representation from the various U.S. biotechnology sectors. The criteria for panel member selection are shown in Table 1.2. To ensure the technical versatility and expertise required, the authors selected members with a comprehensive understanding of molecular biology, upstream bioprocess engineering, and downstream bioprocessing. It should be mentioned that the primary mission of the panel was to evaluate bioprocess engineering research and development. However, it was impossible to assess biotechnology in the restrictive context of engineering without looking at the implications for developments in molecular sciences. Therefore it was equally important for the panel to include members with technical expertise in this latter area. Finally, many of the panel members were versed with bioprocess issues related to containment, quality assurance, and quality control needed to meet current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) standards.