Chloroplasts and mitochondria play central roles in photosynthesis, respiration, plant growth, environmental responses, and crop productivity. Understanding, editing, and designing their genomes represents an important frontier in both fundamental plant science and the development of sustainable agricultural biotechnology.

Through the JSPS Core-to-Core Program, “Formation of an International Center of Excellence for Plant Organelle Research,” we have developed an international network for collaborative research, researcher exchange, international symposia, and the training of early-career researchers.

The International Research Initiative for Plant Organelle Genome Engineering（iPOGE）builds upon the international network established through the JSPS Core-to-Core Program and expands it into a broader and sustainable platform for international collaboration in plant organelle genome engineering.

iPOGE promotes research on the understanding, editing, design, delivery, and application of chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes. It also facilitates interdisciplinary and international collaboration, supports the next generation of researchers, and promotes the sharing of technologies, knowledge, and research resources.

With the University of Tokyo serving as a central hub, iPOGE aims to develop an open international research network connecting researchers, institutions, companies, and related scientific communities around the world.