1. 논문관련 분야의 소개, 동향, 전망을 설명, 연구과정에서 생긴 에피소드

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by inflammation and ulceration of the colonic mucosa. Although biologics including anti-TNF-alpha were introduced as an effective treatment option for selected patients that changed the natural course of severe IBD in patients, it usually accompanies critical adverse effects such as infections, heart failure, and malignancies in worst cases. Mucosa healing (MH) offers a potential endpoint for UC treatment. Pro-resolving factors that are critical for colonic epithelial restitution are downregulated during treatment with inhibitors of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. anti-TNF alpha) in UC. This paper elaborates that increased amounts of factors such as IL-22 delivered by newly developed lipid nanoparticles in the inflamed mucosa may improve the MH process.

2. 연구를 진행했던 소속기관 또는 연구소에 대해 소개 부탁드립니다.

Institute for Biomedical Science (IBMS) at Georgia State University, located in Atlanta, GA, is a multidisciplinary and innovative research institute that constitutes three research centers including the Center for Inflammation, Immunity, and infection, the Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, and the Center for Translational Immunology. Researchers at IBMS are working to develop new vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics that would lead to better patient care and new clinical applications.

3. 연구 활동 하시면서 평소 느끼신 점 또는 자부심, 보람

Since I am particularly interested in therapeutics, it motivates me the most when problem-solving works out great during experiments. Also, I think it’s fortunate that I’m working with such a wonderful research team and advisors.

4. 이 분야로 진학하려는 후배들 또는 유학준비생들에게 도움이 되는 말씀을 해 주신다면?

I’d say enthusiasm and consistency are the key success factors in biomedical research. I’ve always been confronted with barriers in my scientific career but I kept pushing myself until I reach my goal. Besides this classical boring answer, I’d suggest aiming for research schools in suburban areas in the states. Don’t just try to get into renowned schools among Koreans just because they look good from the outside. There are hundreds of great institutions out there that offer academic and research opportunities for international students. Contact PIs. Email them and ask what you are looking for. Keep knocking on the door then you will have time to take chances.

5. 연구 활동과 관련된 앞으로의 계획이 있으시다면?

After I moved to different research group, I started to work on immunomodulatory nanoparticles, focusing on developing strategies for treating dysregulated immune responses such as allergy, inflammation, and cancer through the intersection of two disciplines, nanotechnology and immune engineering.

6. 다른 하시고 싶은 이야기들.....

Love your family. Love people who you work with. They are the greatest supporters of your scientific career and life.