Marc Feldmann is an immunologist who has carried out groundbreaking work on the treatment of a number of autoimmune diseases. His particular research interest is in deciphering the role of cell-signalling chemicals known as cytokines in human disease processes.

Together with Sir Ravinder Maini FMedSci FRS, he was the first to show that antibodies that bind to the tumour necrosis factor (TNF) cytokine could block inflammation in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). He later discovered that by adding an immune suppressant — for example, the chemotherapy drug, methotrexate — the treatment could be made to work better and last longer.

Marc’s findings have had a major impact on the treatment of RA: over 5 million patients have now received anti-TNF drugs, such as the monoclonal antibody infliximab. In addition, his pioneering work with cytokines has led to the successful treatment of other autoimmune diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis — significantly improving the daily lives of millions of people worldwide.