New investigator: John Dickinson, MD, PhD

This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony on Feb. 24 for UNMC's 2021 Scientist Laureate, Distinguished Scientist, New Investigator and Community Service to Research Award recipients.

• Name: John Dickinson, MD 
• Title: Assistant professor, UNMC Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine 
• Joined UNMC: 2014 
• Hometown:  Yankton, South Dakota

Research focus: Airway disease exacerbations 

Why is research important in the world today? In the last 20 years, scientists have discovered how changes to the human airway in the lungs develop with time leading to exacerbations in symptoms for those suffering with asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). However, less is known how these exacerbations resolve. Our recent findings identify a mechanism by which airway epithelial cells eliminate excess mucin granules through the protein degradation pathway of autophagy. We also identified therapeutic approaches to accelerate this pathway of mucin degradation. We propose this is a novel approach to shorten the recovery time for patients who experience an exacerbation of their underlying asthma or COPD.  

My research will make a difference because: COPD is the third leading cause of death in the United States. New approaches are needed to improve outcomes in this disease.  

The best advice I’ve ever received is:

My late father inspired with me his hard work and perseverance. I have tried to emulate my Dad’s work ethic every day as a physician and scientist.  

Three things you may not know about me are: 

• I enjoy trail running and completed a 50K event in 2018.  
• My wife homeschools our five children. I help with the science lessons.  
• I hate jigsaw puzzles. Please never gift me one.