From June 26 to June 28, I attended the 25th Annual Meeting of the RNA Society of Japan at the University of Tokyo. This conference provided an invaluable opportunity to engage with leading researchers in the field, present my research, and expand my understanding of cutting-edge RNA studies.

Presentation and Feedback
I presented a poster on my research, titled “Exploring the Landscape of tRNA Modifications in Ageing.” This presentation allowed me to share my findings with a broader audience and receive constructive feedback. The insights and suggestions provided by fellow researchers were incredibly valuable, offering new perspectives and ideas for advancing my project. The feedback emphasized the importance of refining certain methodologies and considering alternative approaches better to understand the complexities of tRNA modifications in ageing.

Scholarly Exchanges and Networking
Professor Kariko, a Nobel laureate, delivered an inspiring keynote address. She recounted her arduous journey in research, culminating in the development of mRNA vaccines, a breakthrough that has had a profound impact on global health. Her talk was a testament to the importance of perseverance in scientific research and highlighted RNA technology's transformative potential. Professor Kariko’s story was both motivating and enlightening, offering a powerful reminder of the impact of dedicated research.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to attend a session by a scholar from Professor IWASAKI's laboratory at the University of Tokyo, who shared their work on mitochondrial Ribo-seq. This session was particularly relevant to my research, as the techniques discussed could be applied to my studies on tRNA modifications. The detailed explanation of their methodology and the subsequent discussion provided practical insights that I intend to incorporate into my experiments.

Furthermore, I engaged in a fruitful conversation with Professor Hou from Thomas Jefferson University. Her work on tRNA-seq closely aligns with my research interests, and we exchanged experiences and techniques. This exchange not only validated some of my approaches but also introduced me to new methods that could enhance the accuracy and efficiency of my research.

One of the highlights of the conference was the opportunity to engage in scholarly exchanges with other researchers. I had an enriching discussion with a researcher specializing in DMS-seq for RNA structure prediction. We shared our experiences and insights, particularly focusing on this technique's technical challenges and potential applications. This exchange was enriching, as it provided new ideas for my research.


Cultural and Campus Experience
In addition to the academic benefits, the conference provided an opportunity to explore the beautiful University of Tokyo campus. The historic Yasuda Auditorium, with its impressive architecture and rich history, was a highlight of my visit. Walking through the serene campus grounds, I felt inspired by the academic excellence and tradition that the university embodies.

I also had a chance to enjoy the delicious lunch at the University of Tokyo. The food was very delicious and made me very happy. The experience added a cultural dimension to my trip.

Acknowledgments
I am profoundly grateful to the RNA Society for awarding me the Travel Fellowship. This support was instrumental in enabling my participation in the conference, allowing me to focus on learning and networking without the burden of financial concerns. The knowledge and connections gained during this event have been invaluable, providing new insights and expanding my research horizons.

I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to my professor, Fan-Yan Wei, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout my research journey. His mentorship has been crucial in shaping my understanding and approach to RNA research. Additionally, I am thankful to every member of my laboratory for their continuous help and encouragement.

In conclusion, the 25th Annual Meeting of the RNA Society of Japan was a remarkable experience. The combination of scholarly exchanges, exposure to pioneering research, and cultural experiences made this conference a memorable and impactful event. I look forward to applying the knowledge gained and continuing to engage with the RNA research community.