The Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology, published since 1957, provides a peer-reviewed interdisciplinary forum for bimonthly publication of basic science and clinical research papers in all fields of ophthalmology. The Japanese Ophthalmological Society is dedicated to the preventive care and treatment of the eye, and to scientific research regarding all aspects of ophthalmology. To further these goals, the Society has designated the Japanese Journal of Ophthalmology its official English language publication from January 1997. The purpose of this scientific journal is to disseminate the significant results of study by ophthalmologists worldwide. To help us fulfill our purpose, we encourage you to submit your original papers concerning any area of ophthalmology, as well as Rapid Communications or Letters to the Editor. We welcome your suggestions and criticism.