“Attending the conference sparked new ideas and collaborations”: Trust-funded PhD student Charlotte speaks about her recent experience of attending a CF research conference
Hi Charlotte, tell us what your research is about
My research is investigating how CF affects the gut (intestine) and its potential link to colorectal cancer. It is part of a Trust-funded Strategic Research Centre programme.
We examine what makes the CF gut different and if these differences may increase cancer risk. We also analyse tumour tissue to see if colorectal cancer in CF is similar to that in the general population or if it has any unique features.
How could your research make a difference to people with CF?
There are fairly limited research data investigating colorectal cancer in CF. From our research we aim to have an improved understanding of how the faulty CF protein impacts the intestine and which of these changes could contribute towards cancer development. This knowledge will help us and other researchers identify what we might want to alter to promote a healthier gut environment and lower the risk of colorectal cancer in people with CF.
Tell us about the conference.
I attended the European Young Investigators Meeting (EYIM for short) in Paris, organised by members of CF Europe. Around 40 early career researchers from all over Europe were there, all working in different areas of CF research. It was an excellent opportunity to introduce our research to fellow scientists in the CF research community. There’s been a recent shift towards intestinal research in CF and it was fantastic to see lots of interest in this area. Talking with other scientists and learning about various aspects of CF is crucial for gaining a detailed understanding of it.
What results did you present there?
One of the highlights of my research project is creating stunning images of the intestine, so I enjoyed presenting my data visually on a poster. Although presenting research can still be nerve-racking (I’m not sure if that ever changes!), it felt great to discuss the data that my colleagues and I have been working on. I was delighted to win the ‘best poster’ competition at the conference.
There are lots of different types of cells in the intestines, and they all have different functions. We’ve found some interesting changes in various cell groups within the CF intestine. It’s fascinating to see how different cells react to challenging conditions.
I had lots of exciting discussions at the conference. They sparked some new ideas and possible collaborations with other researchers interested in understanding the gut symptoms of CF.
Trust-funded PhD student Charlotte
We heard from a guest speaker with CF about the benefits of new therapies, as well as the challenges they still face. Their talk helped to reinforce the importance of our work. Afterwards, I felt energised and motivated to return to the lab