Hirotake Komatsu, United States

Dr. Hirotake Komatsu, Associate Professor at the Department of Surgery at UCSF, is at the forefront of diabetes treatment through beta cell replacement therapy. With extensive clinical experience as a surgeon and a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, his research focuses on the assessment of the hypoxia response in pancreatic islets, minimally invasive transplantation techniques, and improving cell survival with innovative oxygenation approaches. His contributions include developing an implantable oxygenation device for improving extrahepatic site islet transplantation outcomes. Recognized for his work with several grants and publications, Dr. Komatsu's expertise is also evidenced by his active role in academic and professional communities, including serving on editorial boards and as a young investigator committee member of the International Pancreas and Islet Transplantation Association. His collaborative projects bridge islet physiology and engineering fields, aiming to revolutionize the treatment of diabetes and enhance islet engraftment.