The 96th Annual Meeting of the Genetics Society of Japan was held at Kochi University of Technology. Sasaki organized a workshop titled "Large-scale chromosomal changes: how they occur and how cells respond to them". In connection with circular chromosomes, we invitedJunko Kanoh from the University of Tokyo and Professor Masaru Ueno from Hiroshima University. Regarding large-scale chromosomal structural changes, we had a presentation by Dr. Makoto Hayashi from IFOM. Sasaki gave a presentation titled "Understanding mechanisms underlying formation and maintenance of extrachromosomal circular DNAs".

At the reception, we enjoyed Kochi's famous sawachi ryori (a traditional platter dish), katsuo no tataki (seared bonito), and delicious sake. We also had a great time at the after-party.