Dr. Kazutomo Sawai is a distinguished Japanese physician-researcher specializing in nephrology and Kampo (traditional Japanese) medicine. He has made outstanding contributions to the understanding of glomerular regeneration, diabetic nephropathy, and molecular markers of kidney disease. With over two decades of clinical and research experience, Dr. Sawai combines modern medical science with traditional therapeutic approaches to address complex renal pathologies. His professional journey encompasses high-level academic training, fellowships at prominent institutions, and leadership roles within clinical practice and education. Since 2010, he has served as President of Daisan Clinic in Amagasaki, Hyogo, Japan, where he also champions patient education and community healthcare. Dr. Sawai’s international presence is marked by presentations at global nephrology congresses, highlighting his pivotal research on Connexin43 and Cyr61 expression in diabetic nephropathy and glomerulonephritis. His clinical insights are further enriched through his integration of Kampo medicine, reflected in his successful management of chronic cases through traditional prescriptions. A fellow of multiple Japanese medical societies, he has received notable honors for his scientific achievements. Dr. Sawai remains a committed clinician, educator, and researcher, dedicated to translational nephrology, patient-centered care, and the advancement of integrative medicine practices.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Kazutomo Sawai pursued his foundational medical education at the esteemed Kyoto University School of Medicine, obtaining his M.D. in 1995. Demonstrating an early interest in renal pathophysiology, he continued his academic journey by earning a Ph.D. in Renal Physiology from Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine in 2004. His doctoral work focused on glomerular disease mechanisms and the role of angiogenic and podocyte-specific factors in kidney regeneration. Dr. Sawai’s postgraduate training included a comprehensive residency in internal medicine at Kyoto University Hospital and Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital between 1995 and 1997. He later undertook specialized fellowships in nephrology and dialysis therapy from 1998 to 2001 at both Saiseikai Nakatsu and Kyoto University Hospitals. Expanding his scope beyond conventional medicine, Dr. Sawai completed dual fellowships in Kampo medicine between 2015 and 2018 at Midorinokaze Clinic and Rakuwakai Otowa Hospital. This diverse academic and clinical training underpins his multidisciplinary approach to kidney care, integrating Western biomedical science with traditional Japanese therapeutics. Dr. Sawai’s strong academic background has laid a robust foundation for his research contributions and clinical leadership, positioning him as a key figure in the evolution of nephrology and holistic patient care in Japan.
Professional Experience
Dr. Sawai has cultivated an illustrious professional career marked by significant academic, clinical, and administrative roles. His early medical career began with residencies in internal medicine at Kyoto University Hospital and Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital from 1995 to 1997. He then specialized in nephrology and dialysis therapy during fellowships at these institutions through 2001. Dr. Sawai’s academic appointments include a role as Project Researcher in Internal Medicine at Kyoto University in 2004 and a notable tenure as Chief Researcher at the National Cardiovascular Center Research Institute in Osaka from 2004 to 2010. In 2010, he assumed the presidency of Daisan Clinic in Amagasaki, where he continues to practice, lead, and mentor. His responsibilities extend to community health, serving as Medical Director and Adviser for local home care services, and contributing as a committee member overseeing free and low-cost medical programs. He has also taught at Saiseikai Nakatsu Nursing School and Hanshin Cooperative Association Community College. With an integrated focus on internal medicine, nephrology, dialysis, and Kampo medicine, Dr. Sawai’s professional journey reflects a commitment to advancing holistic healthcare, clinical education, and community outreach.
Research Interest
Dr. Sawai’s research interests span the molecular, cellular, and clinical dimensions of nephrology. His work is particularly focused on the pathophysiology of glomerular diseases, including diabetic nephropathy, anti-GBM nephritis, and glomerulonephritis. He has extensively investigated the roles of podocyte-specific genes, such as Cyr61 (CCN1) and Connexin43, in renal injury and regeneration. These studies have led to insights into the mechanisms of podocyte dysfunction and the potential use of angiogenic and regenerative factors in predicting or improving renal outcomes. A pioneer in integrating traditional medicine into modern nephrology, Dr. Sawai has also explored the therapeutic applications of Kampo prescriptions in managing chronic symptoms such as dementia, hypertension, and neuropathic pain. His case studies highlight the efficacy of herbal formulations in complex clinical scenarios that often resist conventional treatment. His broader interest encompasses translational nephrology, where laboratory discoveries can inform clinical practice. With a comprehensive understanding of both biomedical science and traditional Japanese healing systems, Dr. Sawai’s research bridges disciplines to deliver patient-centered, evidence-based, and integrative kidney care. His continuous presence at national and international conferences further demonstrates his commitment to advancing nephrology and promoting the fusion of traditional and modern medical systems.
Research Skills
Dr. Sawai brings a sophisticated portfolio of research skills to the field of nephrology and integrative medicine. Trained in both clinical and bench research environments, he has demonstrated strong capabilities in experimental nephrology, molecular biology, and pathophysiological analysis. His core competencies include immunohistochemistry, gene expression profiling, and biomarker discovery, particularly focusing on proteins like Cyr61 and Connexin43 in renal pathology. His collaborative research has leveraged rodent models of glomerulonephritis and diabetic nephropathy to explore regeneration pathways in the kidney. Dr. Sawai’s ability to translate these findings into clinical insights distinguishes his work in translational medicine. Additionally, his skills extend to clinical trial design, retrospective case analysis, and Kampo prescription efficacy assessment, making him a rare blend of experimental and clinical researcher. He is also an experienced academic presenter and has delivered over 30 presentations at regional, national, and international conferences. His capacity for multidisciplinary collaboration, particularly in combining conventional nephrology with traditional Japanese Kampo medicine, reflects advanced integrative research skills. Through his leadership at Daisan Clinic, he continues to apply these skills in real-world settings, facilitating a seamless interface between research innovation and patient care.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Dr. Kazutomo Sawai has received multiple accolades in recognition of his academic and research excellence. Among the earliest distinctions was the Miyake Memorial Award from Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine in 2003, acknowledging his contributions to internal medicine and clinical science. In 2004, he was the recipient of the Tsujisaka Memorial Scholarship, awarded for scholarly promise and research potential in the field of renal physiology. The Young Researcher’s Award conferred at the 42nd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Molecular Medicine in 2005 further highlighted his innovative work on glomerular regeneration. He also earned a Travel Grant from the American Society of Nephrology, which enabled him to present his research at international platforms and expand cross-border academic exchange. These honors not only affirm his impactful scientific work but also emphasize his contributions to the global discourse on nephrology. Dr. Sawai’s recognition by both Japanese and international institutions reflects the high quality and significance of his research. His continued academic output and interdisciplinary approach ensure that he remains at the forefront of innovation in renal medicine and integrative therapies.
Conclusion
Dr. Kazutomo Sawai stands out as a clinician-researcher of exceptional caliber, whose multifaceted career bridges the realms of nephrology, internal medicine, and Kampo therapeutics. His academic foundation at Kyoto University, combined with specialized fellowships in nephrology and traditional medicine, has shaped a unique professional identity that is both modern and rooted in tradition. As President of Daisan Clinic, he has made significant contributions to clinical nephrology while also enhancing community health services and medical education. Dr. Sawai’s research has had a profound impact on the understanding of podocyte biology, glomerular regeneration, and diabetic nephropathy, with practical applications for improving patient outcomes. His pioneering integration of Kampo medicine into nephrology offers novel approaches to managing chronic, treatment-resistant conditions. Despite a lack of editorial roles, his active participation in national and international scientific forums and multiple honors confirm his standing in the field. Dr. Sawai exemplifies dedication to science, education, and compassionate patient care, making him an ideal candidate for prestigious recognition such as the Best Researcher Award. His work continues to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals and researchers in Japan and beyond.
Publications Top Notes
1. Traditional remedy-induced Chinese herbs nephropathy showing rapid deterioration of renal function
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Year: 1997
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Authors: Tanaka A, Nishida R, Sawai K, Nagae T, Shinkai S, Ishikawa M, Maeda K, Murata M, Seta K, Okuda J, Yoshida T, Sugawara A, Kuwahara T
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Journal: Nihon Jinzo Gakkai Shi
2. Human parvovirus B19 infection resembling systemic lupus erythematosus
3. Concealed hypothyroidism in patients with myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (MPO-ANCA) positive renal disease
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Year: 1999
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Authors: Tanaka A, Maeda K, Sawai K, Okuda J, Sugawara A, Kuwahara T
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Journal: Clinical Nephrology
4. Intraglomerular metastasis from pancreatic cancer
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Year: 2001
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Authors: Yokoi H, Nakata M, Sawai K, Yoshida T, Koshikawa M, Joyama S, Tanaka A, Goto M, Ueda S, Senzaki H, Sugawara A, Kuwahara T
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Journal: American Journal of Kidney Diseases
5. C4d and C4bp deposition along the glomerular capillary walls in a patient with preeclampsia
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Year: 2001
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Authors: Joyama S, Yoshida T, Koshikawa M, Sawai K, Yokoi H, Tanaka A, Gotoh M, Ueda S, Sugawara A, Kuwahara T
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Journal: American Journal of Kidney Diseases
6. Angiogenic protein Cyr61 is expressed by podocytes in anti-Thy-1 glomerulonephritis
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Year: 2003
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Authors: Sawai K, Mori K, Mukoyama M, Sugawara A, Suganami T, Koshikawa M, Yahata K, Makino H, Nagae T, Fujinaga Y, Yokoi H, Yoshioka T, Yoshimoto A, Tanaka I, Nakao K
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Journal: Journal of the American Society of Nephrology
7. Reduction in connective tissue growth factor by antisense treatment ameliorates renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis
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Year: 2004
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Authors: Yokoi H, Mukoyama M, Nagae T, Mori K, Suganami T, Sawai K, Yoshioka T, Koshikawa M, Nishida T, Takigawa M, Sugawara A, Nakao K
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Journal: Journal of the American Society of Nephrology
8. Prevention and reversal of renal injury by leptin in a new mouse model of diabetic nephropathy
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Year: 2005
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Authors: Suganami T, Mukoyama M, Mori K, Yokoi H, Koshikawa M, Sawai K, Hidaka S, Ebihara K, Tanaka T, Sugawara A, Kawachi H, Vinson C, Ogawa Y, Nakao K
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Journal: FASEB Journal
9. Endocytic delivery of lipocalin-siderophore-iron complex rescues the kidney from ischemia-reperfusion injury
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Year: 2005
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Authors: Mori K, Lee HT, Rapoport D, Drexler IR, Foster K, Yang J, Schmidt-Ott KM, Chen X, Li JY, Weiss S, Mishra J, Cheema FH, Markowitz G, Suganami T, Sawai K, Mukoyama M, Kunis C, D’Agati V, Devarajan P, Barasch J
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Journal: Journal of Clinical Investigation
10. Role of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase activation in podocyte injury and proteinuria in experimental nephrotic syndrome
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Year: 2005
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Authors: Koshikawa M, Mukoyama M, Mori K, Suganami T, Sawai K, Yoshioka T, Nagae T, Yokoi H, Kawachi H, Shimizu F, Sugawara A, Nakao K
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Journal: Journal of the American Society of Nephrology