The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Neuroscience (TMIN or "Shinkeiken") was established in 1972 by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. The object of the Institute is to the welfare of patients with neurological disorders by performing basic and clinically oriented research on the nervous system, thereby providing scientific bases for prevention and treatment.

For more than twenty years since its establishment, the Institute has actively engaged in fundamental and clinical research, inclose collaboration with the Metropolitan Neurological Hospital and other medical facilities in the Fuchu Campus where the Institute is located. The cooperation of many academic and medical facilities in the support of the Metropolitan citizens, in particular, are also appreciated. We can proudly state that a great number of results achieved at the Institute over this period have served to promote neuroscience on a world-wide scale and to contribute to the advancement of medicine.

Nonetheless, since the brain or the nervous system is so intricate and complex in structure and function, there still remain many areas that are not yet well understood, and a great number of tasks must be undertaken before the serious neurological diseases can be overcome.

On the basis of the importance of the brain, and the current state of knowledge thereof, the 21st century is being called the "Century of the Brain," and some national research initiatives are already underway. Here in Japan, the importance of the field is also recognized, and research is being promoted via a focused system of budget allocation.

In view of the important role of neuroscience in society, we wish to reconfirm the mission of our Institute -- to do our best in our research and in the dissemination of the fruits thereof, and to contribute to the medical welfare of Tokyo's citizens and to the progress of neuroscience. To this end, we would like to ask for the continued understanding and support of the people of Tokyo, our colleagues, and related institutions.

The Institute with Mt. Fuji in February 2006.