Dr.Takanori Takebe, the founder of the Stellar Science Foundation (SS-F), was awarded the 2024 Ig Nobel Prize for his research on the use of intestinal ventilation mechanisms. This study, which explores the potential of “intestinal breathing,” is the result of innovative thinking that challenges conventional ideas. It has received significant attention as a breakthrough approach to the treatment of respiratory failure. This recognition provides an opportunity to reflect on the importance of SS-F’s emphasis on fostering free thinking that leads to discovery and invention.
Q1: What does the Ig Nobel Prize mean to you?
The Ig Nobel Prize is awarded for unique and quirky research that fits the theme of “First make people laugh, then make them think”. Established in 1991, it has a history of more than 30 years, so even non-scientists might be familiar with it. Many of the winning studies make you laugh, but behind the humor lies deep scientific insight, often offering new perspectives on society and science. For me, this award is truly meaningful as it reminds me of the importance of new discoveries and fresh ideas, and I’m deeply honored to have received it.
Q2: What inspired the innovative idea of ‘intestinal breathing’?
‘Intestinal breathing’, as the name suggests, is an approach that delivers oxygen to the body through the intestines. We have officially named it Enteral Ventilation (EVA). The inspiration for this approach came from loaches. Loaches breathe with their gills in the water, but when they are in oxygen-poor mud, they use “intestinal breathing” to take in oxygen through their intestines. After researching numerous papers, I found that there are other organisms that absorb oxygen through various parts of their gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, the accumulating knowledge suggested the possibility of achieving this in mammals as well, which led me to consider that humans might also be able to absorb oxygen through the intestines. We then proceeded to verify the effects in mice and pigs.
Q3: How does this research align with SS-F’s philosophy?
SS-F values free thinking that transcends conventional boundaries. Therefore, we aim to provide an environment where researchers can continuously challenge themselves with innovative ideas. The recent research on intestinal breathing was also the result of exploring from a new perspective, free from the common belief that “breathing occurs only in the lungs.” However, the journey to realizing this was not an easy one. With virtually no research funding, we persevered and continued to take on this challenge, even in small steps. As a result, what started as a mere idea gradually gained more feasibility. Coincidentally, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically increased the societal demand for methods like intestinal ventilation. This surge in need brought us research funding and collaborators, marking a turning point in our journey just a few years ago. We believe that by not only supporting creative thinking but also encouraging sustained challenges and seizing serendipitous opportunities, science has the potential to pave the way for a brighter future for society.
Q4: What kind of environment does SS-F plan to create going forward?
At SS-F, we’re focused on fostering collaboration between researchers from different fields, giving them a space to share and develop new ideas. Last month (August), we held a retreat that brought together researchers and business leaders for lively discussions. These types of interactions spark new perspectives and ideas that we believe will lead to significant discoveries. We’re committed to creating an environment where researchers can pursue their curiosity, so stay tuned for what’s next.
