Dr. Masatoshi Kudo stands as a preeminent figure in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology, currently serving as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Kindai University Faculty of Medicine since 1999. A distinguished graduate of Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, he earned his PhD in Medical Science in 1987 and subsequently completed a clinical fellowship at Kobe City General Hospital. His international training included a research fellowship at the University of California Davis Medical Center from 1987 to 1989, followed by additional research at Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine from 1990 to 1992. Dr. Kudo has expanded his leadership responsibilities beyond his department, serving as President of Kindai University Hospital since 2008 and as an Executive Board Member of Kindai University since 2015.
Dr. Kudo's scholarly contributions have profoundly impacted the field of liver disease and cancer management, with an impressive publication record of 517 international peer-reviewed papers and 789 domestic scientific papers. His expertise is internationally recognized through 344 invited lectures delivered to global audiences, where he has shared insights on hepatocellular carcinoma diagnosis and treatment. As Co-chairman of the APASL HBV guideline committee and panel member for HCV and HCC guidelines, he has played a pivotal role in shaping evidence-based clinical practices across the Asia-Pacific region. His research has particularly advanced the understanding of liver cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches, establishing him as a leading authority whose work directly influences patient care protocols worldwide.
Beyond his research achievements, Dr. Kudo serves in numerous influential capacities including Executive Board Member of the Japan Society of Hepatology, Founding Board Member of the International Liver Cancer Association, and elected member of the Asian Pacific Digestive Week Federation governance board since 2019. His leadership extends to editorial roles and chairing committees such as the Nationwide Survey Committee of the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan, where he drives collaborative research initiatives. Current research projects focus on understanding immune checkpoint inhibitor resistance mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma and elucidating immunological networks in autoimmune pancreatitis. Dr. Kudo's recent recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher in 2021 and multiple prestigious awards including the Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Award underscore his enduring impact and continued leadership in advancing gastrointestinal medicine.
