Mark R Ackermann

Biography

Mark R Ackermann is a Professor at Veterinary Pathology in Lowa state University.

Research Interest

Dr. Ackermann’s laboratory investigates respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in newborn lambs as a model for RSV infection in infants. His team has determined the effects of preterm birth, in utero stresses (e.g., alcohol/nicotine) on RSV disease severity and also identified key innate and adaptive immune responses that underlie susceptibility to RSV infection in the preterm and term lung. They have used this model to test therapeutic interventions such as the enhancement of the dual functioning oxidase/lactoperoxidase innate defense system, administration of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and the effects of other small molecule therapeutics. There are no fully effective treatments for RSV and Ackermann’s laboratory are currently testing promising drugs against RSV that have also entered or are entering human clinical trials. In addition, the team has determined the lambs, like infants, developed enhanced RSV disease following vaccination with formalin-inactivated RSV vaccine. Major funding has included the NIH, USDA, Salsbury Endowment, Carver Foundation, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Dr. Ackermann's previous work involved molecular and innate immunity, including work on Mannheimia haemolytica, an important pathogen in shipping fever of cattle and sheep, along with his work on bovine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (BLAD) in Holstein cattle. Dr. Ackermann also is engaged in clinical service (diagnostic pathology) and has diagnostic expertise in respiratory diseases and gastrointestinal disease. He has served as Interim Associate Dean of Research and Acting Chair of Veterinary Clinical Sciences as well as the J.G. Salsbury Endowed Chair and served on NIH study sections and USDA review panels. Dr. Ackermann teaches veterinary medical students in clinical rotations, graduate students, and post doctoral candidates and is Director of the Summer Scholar Research Program for veterinary medical students. Currently, as Interim Assistant Dean he developed seminars introducing first year veterinary medical students to biomedical research and served as PI for the NIH T 35 renewal at ISU. He has been active in the American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP) professional organization serving on various committees and is currently Secretary/Treasurer of the ACVP.