Meet the Associate | Carolyn Jack, MDCM PhD FRCPC  

In 2018, Dr. Jack founded the MUHC Center of Excellence for Atopic Dermatitis, the first tertiary care centre in Canada dedicated to adult atopic dermatitis. Her clinic has been recognized both nationally and internationally for its patient engagement platform, and she is the cofounder of EczemaQ, an award-winning mobile health application. As an FRQS Clinical Research Scholar, her research goal is to identify disease-modifying interventions in chronic atopic dermatitis.

Dr. Jack was a program co-chair for the IEC symposia “Pathophysiological Insights into AD and New Therapeutic Developments” May 10 at the International Society for Investigative Dermatology Meeting 2023 (ISID) in Tokyo, Japan. As part of the symposium, she presented a flash talk, "High-Dimensional Analysis Identifies Variably Persistent Activated Skin-Homing Th2/Tc2 Populations in AD Patients on Dupilumab.”

Earlier this year, she presented “Infections in Atopic Dermatitis and Implications for Therapy" as part of the IEC symposium “New Developments in Atopic Dermatitis and Implications for the Atopic March” February 23 prior to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) 2023 Annual Meeting in San Antonio, TX.  She is also co-lead author of an upcoming IEC manuscript. 

What is your proudest accomplishment in the atopic dermatitis (AD) space to date?

Even though I am a fundamental immunologist, I am most proud to have initiated a patient-oriented research platform. I work hand in hand with adults who suffer from atopic dermatitis as partners in my lab’s work, and this has both reshaped my approach and driven more innovation, such as our mHealth application, EczemaQ. 

What do you value most about being involved with the IEC?

The inspiration that can only be gained by interacting with global experts. The IEC is a magnet for collaboration and has the means to curate knowledge into durable and accessible formats. The impact and complexity of atopic dermatitis pulls in top scientists and engages the most passionate clinicians; it is an honor to learn from them. Tangible solutions can be accelerated when fostered within IEC meetings and working groups.   

Based on your experience, what do you think will garner the most attention over the coming year in atopic dermatitis research or care? 

Interactions between the nervous system and the inflammation of atopic dermatitis holds great interest, especially as we get closer to understanding cellular culprits and their skin-specific circuitry. Although it may take more time, studies are underway that test for capacity to halt atopy progression early in life. If we can identify immunologic windows for inducing tolerance, this may be key to prevention, the “holy grail” of our life's work.

What do you see as the biggest need among patients who have atopic dermatitis?

At the physiologic level, itch extermination. Interconnected as it is within our immune and organ systems, itch drives the misery and consequences of this disease. In practice, patients need adequate information exchange about these connections and more support to filter through misinformation for effective activation and decision making. Globally, we need tailored solutions for vulnerable populations and more collaboration to address mental health.