Highlighted Researcher: Chetna Bedi

What is your professional background?
I completed my undergraduate education, Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Zoology Honors from University of Delhi and received my master’s in Biological Sciences from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. I enrolled in the Ph.D. program in the department of Biomedical Sciences at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, under Dr. Thomas Adrian. Subsequently, I moved to Northwestern University in Chicago with my mentor, where I completed my research work. My post-doctoral fellowship was at Emory University under the mentorship of Dr. Roberto Pacifici in Endocrinology and Dr. Jan Mead in Pediatrics.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
Currently, I am a faculty member of the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine in the Department of Medicine, under the mentorship of Dr. Ruxana Sadikot.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My current work has focused on investigating novel targets to enhance host immunity. Due to the prevalence of highly resistance microbials, there is an overarching need to (i) understand host-pathogen interactions and the factors utilized by the pathogen to attenuate host defense and establish infection and (ii) identify host factors that can be pharmacologically targeted as a supplemental therapy in addition to current anti-microbial treatment regimens. One such target we have studied extensively is peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARg). It is the downstream effector of lipid mediators such as Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2). We have shown that PPARg and its downstream targets are compromised during lung infections. Directing therapeutics towards PPARg and its effector molecules can improve morbidity and mortality associated with infectious pneumonia.

What do you like most about Emory?
Emory University has the best of both worlds in terms of access to resources for basic and translational research. It has a great supportive and collaborative environment. Emory also has a lot of faculty who are pioneers in their respective fields.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
Django Unchained

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy watching movies, cooking, and hiking.

What is a fun fact about you?
I like books by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and love the character of Sherlock Holmes.