Nicole Bedke

1. How did you become interested in translational gastroenterology?

I have worked in respiratory medicine and immune-oncology, both in an academic and industry setting. I was interested in returning to academia, so I looked for opportunities to undertake a project that would allow me to do so. I was lucky enough to work on a project that had a strong translational aspect that enabled me to see how my research would directly affect patients. 

2. What are you currently working on and what importance does your work hold for current patients with gastrointestinal issues?

My work involves elucidating the mechanism of anti TNF immunogenicity in IBD patients. My team is particularly interested in what epitopes in the Infliximab and Adalimumab molecule are causing patients to lose response to these drugs. These epitopes are presented on class II MHC molecules, which then activate a T and B cell response in patients. This results in anti- drug antibodies being produced against the anti-TNF therapy, making it less efficacious as an IBD treatment.

3. What do you enjoy most about scientific research?

The aspect of scientific research I enjoy the most is constantly being able to learn something new, be it a new technique, a novel observation in the lab, or new piece of information from fellow colleagues. I’m particularly fascinated by understanding how these fit into a bigger picture.

4. What’s the best part of being an Oxford University TGLU member? 

The best part of being a member of the TGLU is that the clinical setting is an integral part of the department. I enjoy being able to see my research’s  direct impact on patients. I also enjoy learning from colleagues from clinical backgrounds about their clinical interests and how these feed into their own academic research.