??Why did you begin your research on the function of natto?

Dr. Sumi: At present, the fibrinolytic enzymes utilized in medicine are urokinase, which is obtained from human urine, and TPA, which is obtained from cancer cells called melanoma. However, when I was studying thrombosis in Chicago, USA, only urokinase was available. In Europe, streptokinase and staferokinase were discovered, which are protein components obtained from bacteria. I found that injections of those enzymes could be used to cure myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction if used at an early stage.

Continued here: http://www.jafra.gr.jp/eng/sumi.html

Steve