In honor of International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11th, we are recognizing women for their amazing work in Sjögren’s (SjD) research. These talented women have either received grants from the Foundation for their work in Sjögren’s research and/or made significant contributions to Sjögren’s research while also increasing awareness and/ or improving patient care. While it is impossible for us to include every woman who has made significant contributions to the field, we have featured a select few U.S.-based women scientists and listed all of our grant recipients and their contributions from 2013 to present. While this list is not all inclusive of the talented women that have contributed to Sjögren’s research nor all the accomplishments made by the women mentioned, we truly have some of the most dedicated women scientists working in Sjögren’s research. We are grateful for their contributions and the influence they have as mentors and leaders in Sjögren’s.
Featured Women Scientists Continuing to Rise as Stars in Sjögren’s Research
Sara McCoy, MD, PhD
Dr. Sara McCoy, MD, PhD, has been at the forefront of changing the landscape of research in Sjögren’s as a clinician scientist, as seen by, for example, her work as co-chair of the Sjögren’s Working Group for Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT), an organization dedicated to building better diagnostic measures and clinical outcomes for patients. She is a faculty member in the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she started a Sjögren’s Clinic in 2016 and later built a Sjögren’s biorepository (a facility that stores and manages biological samples for research and laboratory use.) She was the recipient of a High Impact Grant from the Foundation in 2021 for her research proposal titled, “Comprehensive profiling of Sjögren’s autoantibodies identified from a novel whole peptidome array.” This work— now published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases— led to the discovery of novel autoantibodies that could potentially be used to diagnose Sjögren’s in patients who are SSA antibody negative, which is believed to be approximately 30-40% of the patient population with Sjögren’s. Overall, Dr. McCoy has been an author on more than 40 publications since 2012, some of which are included below.
In 2023, Dr. McCoy was named as one of six investigators selected to receive funding from the Office of Women’s Health Research Leadership Scholars Program for her work, where the long-term goal is to generate therapies that target the pathogenic role of salivary gland mesenchymal stromal cells (SG-MSCs) in Sjögren’s. As a rheumatologist, Dr. McCoy also spends her time creating and presenting educational material for other practicing healthcare professionals and medical students, where she is dedicated to improving patient care management and awareness for Sjögren’s. Dr. McCoy also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Sjögren’s Foundation.
Notable Publications:
- Fisher BA, Mariette X, Papas A, et al. Safety and efficacy of subcutaneous iscalimab (CFZ533) in two distinct populations of patients with Sjögren’s disease (TWINSS): week 24 results of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2b dose-ranging study. Lancet. 2024;404(10452):540-553. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01211-X
- Parker M, Zheng Z, Lasarev MR, et al. Novel autoantibodies help diagnose anti-SSA antibody negative Sjögren disease and predict abnormal labial salivary gland pathology. Ann Rheum Dis. 2024;83(9):1169-1180. Published 2024 Aug 27. doi:10.1136/ard-2023-224936
- McCoy SS, Woodham M, Bartels CM, Saldanha IJ, Bunya VY, Maerz N, Akpek EK, Makara MA, Baer AN. Symptom-Based Cluster Analysis Categorizes Sjögren’s Disease Subtypes: An International Cohort Study Highlighting Disease Severity and Treatment Discordance. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2022 Sep;74(9):1569-1579. doi:10.1002/art.42238. Epub 2022 Aug 3. PubMed PMID: 35594474; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC9427679.
Rachael Gordon, MD, PhD
Dr. Rachael Gordon, MD, PhD, is a rising star in Sjögren’s research and rheumatology. She recently
accepted the position of Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). She started the first Sjögren’s Center at UPMC, which provides comprehensive care for patients with Sjögren’s and is building a translational research program to better understand Sjögren’s and advance research for innovative therapies. In 2023, Dr. Gordon was accepted into the OMERACT Fellows Program that focuses on providing early-career researchers and clinicians with opportunities to engage with experienced mentors from around the world and develop relevant career skills. As an OMERACT fellow, Dr. Gordon has worked with others in the Sjögren’s Working Group to identify the core domains for SjD to be used in interventional clinical trials.
Though her prior research focus was determining disease mechanisms in lupus, she has since focused her lab’s research on Sjögren’s. She was awarded with a Pilot Research Grant from the Foundation in 2023 for her proposal titled, “Investigating the Role of IL-12 in Sjögren’s Disease Pathogenesis.” Recently, she was awarded the Distinguished Fellow Award from the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence
2024, which recognizes clinical and research fellows who are in a rheumatology fellowship training program and who have performed meritoriously.
Notable Publications:
- Gordon RA, Nguyen Y, Foulquier N, et al. The Sjögren’s Working Group: The 2023 OMERACT meeting and provisional domain generation. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2024;65:152378. doi:10.1016/j. semarthrit.2024.152378
- Nguyen Y, Beydon M, Foulquier N, et al. Identification of outcome domains in primary Sjögren’s disease: A scoping review by the OMERACT Sjögren disease working group. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2024;65:152385. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2024.152385
- Gordon RA, Cosgrove HA, Marinov A, et al. NADPH oxidase in B cells and macrophages protects against murine lupus by regulation of TLR7. JCI Insight. 2024;9(16):e178563. Published 2024 Jul 23. doi:10.1172/jci.insight.178563
Dana DiRenzo, MD, MHS
Dr. Dana DiRenzo, MD, MHS, has been leading the way for improving the quality of life for patients with Sjögren’s. She completed her rheumatology fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she subsequently became a faculty member and joined their Sjögren’s Center. There, she was a member of the Mindfulness Team that developed meditations aimed at stress reduction and improvement of quality of life in people with rheumatic diseases. In 2021, Dr. DiRenzo joined the Penn Sjögren’s Center at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) as an assistant professor of clinical Medicine. She also serves on the steering committee for OMERACT and actively contributes to the Sjögren’s and Myositis Working Groups. She leads the Prospective Longitudinal Study to Understand Sjögren's (PLUS) at UPenn. This year, Dr. DiRenzo was awarded the Foundation’s Dynamic Research Grant for her proposal titled, “Development of a Core Outcomes Set of Domains for Sjögren’s Disease.”
Notable Publications:
- Tison A, Jousse-Joulin S, Consigny M, et al. Are ultrasound salivary parenchymal lesions more severe in primary Sjögren patients with a longer disease duration? A cross-sectional study. Rheumatology (Oxford). Published online December 19, 2024. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keae690
- Dayno R, George MD, Blum M, DeQuattro K, Kolasinksi S, DiRenzo D. Description of self-efficacy for managing symptoms and emotions in a large rheumatology clinic population. Clin Exp Rheumatol.2024;42(11):2175-2182. doi:10.55563/clinexprheumatol/2dohgg
- Quéré B, Saraux A, Carvajal-Alegria G, et al. Reliability Exercise of Ultrasound Salivary Glands in Sjögren’s Disease: An International Web Training Initiative. Rheumatol Ther. 2024;11(2):411-423. doi:10.1007/s40744-024-00645-6
Highlighted Members of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation and Leaders in Sjögren’s Research
Vatinee Bunya, MD, MSCE
Dr. Vatinee Bunya, MD, MSCE, is an expert in the study of dry eye and ocular surface diseases. She cares for patients with dry eye and Sjögren’s, and the focus of her research is to develop better ways to measure dry eye and to screen patients for Sjögren’s.
Contributions
Harold G. Scheie Chair & Associate Professor of Ophthalmology; Co-Director, Penn Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Center; Director, Women in Ophthalmology Mentoring Initiative, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania; Director of Clinical Research, Scheie Eye Institute; Member of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
- Nguyen BJ, Gupta AS, He J, et al. Corneal Epithelial Thickness in Sjögren's Disease: A Pilot Study. Clin Ophthalmol. 2024;18:2175-2182. Published 2024 Jul 30. doi:10.2147/OPTH.S456621
- Nortey J, Shiboski C, Rose-Nussbaumer J, Bunya VY, Lietman T, Gonzales JA. How Are Sicca Signs and Symptoms Associated With Depression Among Men Classified With and Without Sjögren Disease?. Am J Ophthalmol. 2023;247:96-102. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2022.09.016
Vidya Sankar, DMD, MHS
Dr. Vidya Sankar, DMD, MHS, is an expert in oral medicine research with research expertise in salivary gland dysfunction that includes study in Sjögren's, oral mucosal diseases, and oral complications of cancer therapy. She specializes in research on oral manifestations underlying systemic disease.
Contributions
Associate Professor, Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences at Tufts School of Dental Medicine; Division Director for Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Tufts School of Dental Medicine; Program Director for Oral Medicine residency; Immediate Past President (2023-2024) of the Executive Committee, American Academy of Oral Medicine (AAOM); Associate Editor in the Oral Medicine Section of the Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology (OOOO) journal; Treasurer of the Executive Committee on the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
- Carsons SE, Vivino FB, Parke A, et al. Treatment Guidelines for Rheumatologic Manifestations of Sjögren’s Syndrome: Use of Biologic Agents, Management of Fatigue, and Inflammatory Musculoskeletal Pain. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2017;69(4):517-527. doi:10.1002/acr.22968
- Sankar V, Noll JL, Brennan MT. Diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome: American-European and the American College of Rheumatology classification criteria. Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2014;26(1):13-22. doi:10.1016/j.coms.2013.09.001
Ava Wu, DDS
Dr. Ava Wu, DDS, is an oral medicine specialist. She is an expert in studying the development of Sjögren’s and the clinical management of oral manifestations of Sjögren’s. She has published over 50 articles on aspects related to Sjögren’s and lectures frequently on the topic. Dr. Wu served on the Board of Directors for the Sjögren’s Foundation and dedicated eight years of service.
Contributions
Professor, Orofacial Sciences at University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry; Director of the Sjögren’s Clinic, UCSF; Former member of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
- Zero DT, Brennan MT, Daniels TE, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for oral management of Sjögren disease: Dental caries prevention. J Am Dent Assoc. 2016;147(4):295-305. doi:10.1016/j.adaj.2015.11.008
- Daniels TE, Cox D, Shiboski CH, et al. Associations between salivary gland histopathologic diagnoses and phenotypic features of Sjögren's syndrome among 1,726 registry participants. Arthritis Rheum. 2011;63(7):2021-2030. doi:10.1002/art.30381
Caroline Shiboski, DDS, PhD, MPH
Dr. Caroline H. Shiboski, DDS, PhD, MPH, is a world-renowned expert in Sjögren’s research and focuses on the oral manifestations caused by immune system dysfunction, which includes Sjögren’s, oral cancers, and infectious diseases. She contributed significantly to the classification criteria used in clinical trials for Sjögren’s and is an active participant in many international working groups, including OMERACT and STAMP (you can read about her work with STAMP in the Nov/Dec issue of Conquering Sjögren's on page 18.)
Contributions
Professor, Orofacial Sciences at University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry; Lead principal investigator for Sjögren’s Team for Accelerating Medicines Partnership (STAMP); Primary Author for American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria for Sjögren’s; Contributor to Sjögren’s Working Group, OMERACT
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication
- Shiboski CH, Shiboski SC, Seror R, et al. 2016 American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria for primary Sjögren’s syndrome: A consensus and data-driven methodology involving three international patient cohorts. Ann Rheum Dis. 2017;76(1):9-16. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210571
- Urbanski UG, Taylor TK, Flynn FE, Gosh GA, Patel PR, Norouzi NA, Davidson DB, Poon PA, Chu CC, Nititham NJ, Fragiadakis FG, Eckalbar EW, Combes CA, Criswell CL, Ye YJ, Shiboski SC. Single-cell RNA-sequencing of PBMCs highlights the central role of anti-SSA antibodies and its association with Interferon-stimulated genes in the expression of Sjögren’s disease. La Revue de Médecine Interne. 2024 Dec 1;45:a385-a386.
List of Women Foundation Research Grant Recipients
2024
Jennifer King, MD, PhD
Abstract: Molecular Phenotyping of Treatment Responsive Sjögren’s Patients
Contributions: Associate Professor at the University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine; Serves as a significant contributor to the Foundation’s Peripheral Nervous System Clinical Guidelines and alignment of Neurology and Rheumatology nomenclature
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Noaiseh G, Deboo A, King JK, et al. Recommendations for Aligned Nomenclature of Peripheral Nervous System Disorders Across Rheumatology and Neurology. Arthritis Rheumatol. Published online November 3, 2024. doi:10.1002/art.43050
Abigail Koppes, PhD
Abstract: Parsing Dysautonomia in a Dish: Neural Exposure to Exogenous Sjögren’s Patient Derived Serum
Contributions: Associate Professor, Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University; Recipient of the NIH R21 Trailblazer in 2017; Co-investigator on a 2019 American Heart Association Innovative Project Award; Co-investigator on a 2016 NIH Biomedical Research Partnership R01 between Northeastern, MIT, and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Note: This is the first time Dr. Koppes is working in Sjögren’s research, but she has created an organ-on-a- chip system to look at neuron responses after inflammatory cues. Here is an article on the development of this system: Hosic S, Bindas AJ, Puzan ML, et al. Rapid Prototyping of Multilayer Microphysiological Systems. ACS Biomater Sci Eng. 2021;7(7):2949-2963. doi:10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00190
Eiko Yamada, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Exploring Target Cells Contributing Higher Interferon Status Through cGAS-STING Pathway in Sjögren’s Disease
Contributions: Research fellow, Salivary Disorders Unit, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Gupta S, Yamada E, Nakamura H, et al. Inhibition of JAK-STAT pathway corrects salivary gland inflammation and interferon driven immune activation in Sjögren’s disease. Ann Rheum Dis. 2024;83(8):1034-1047. Published 2024 Jul 15. doi:10.1136/ard-2023-224842
2023
Anat Galor, MD, MSPH
Abstract: Defining and Understanding Neurologic Manifestations of Sjögren’s Based on Ocular Surface Phenotype
Contributions: Professor of Ophthalmology at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami; Head of Ocular Surface Program Miami Veteran Affairs Medical Center
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Sanchez V, Dobzinski N, Fox R, Galor A. Rethinking Sjögren Beyond Inflammation: Considering the Role of Nerves in Driving Disease Manifestations. Eye Contact Lens. 2024;50(5):200-207. doi:10.1097/ICL.0000000000001068
Note: Dr. Galor was also awarded a Foundation grant in 2016 for her abstract: Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) in Sjögren's, which led to the following publication: Watane A, Cavuoto KM, Rojas M, et al. Fecal Microbial Transplant in Individuals With Immune-Mediated Dry Eye. Am J Ophthalmol. 2022;233:90-100. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2021.06.022
2021
Addy Alt-Holland, PhD
Abstract: Metabolic profiles of salivary and epidermal biomarkers for Sjögren’s diagnosis
Contributions: Professor, School of Dental Medicine, Endodontics at Tufts University; President of The Society form In Vitro Biology Board of Directors
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Alt-Holland A, Huang X, Mendez T, et al. Identification of Salivary Metabolic Signatures Associated with Primary Sjögren’s Disease. Molecules. 2023;28(15):5891. Published 2023 Aug 5. doi:10.3390/molecules28155891
Cintia S. de Paiva, MD, PhD
Abstract: Investigating oral and conjunctival gene transcriptome signature in Sjögren’s at the single cell level
Contributions: Professor, Caroline Elles Endowed Professorship, Department of Ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine; President, International Ocular Surface Society; Editor-in-Chief of The Ocular Surface journal
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Schaefer L, Trujillo-Vargas CM, Midani FS, Pflugfelder SC, Britton RA, de Paiva CS. Gut Microbiota From Sjögren syndrome Patients Causes Decreased T Regulatory Cells in the Lymphoid Organs and Desiccation-Induced Corneal Barrier Disruption in Mice. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022;9:852918. Published 2022 Mar 9. doi:10.3389/ fmed.2022.852918
2020
Seunghee Cha, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Integrated Transcriptomic Profiling of Recurrent Parotitis in Pediatric Sjögren’s for Assessment of Mitochondrial RNA Regulators
Contributions: Professor, Department of Oral Medicine, Director of Center for Orphaned Autoimmune Disorders (COAD) at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Member of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Childhood Sjogren Disease (cSjD) Workgroup and the International cSjD Workgroup
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Drew K, Kronlage R, Cha S, Thatayatikom A, Schrepfer T. Long-term efficacy of sialendoscopy in treating childhood Sjögren’s disease with chronological monitoring by salivary gland ultrasonography: A novel approach. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J. 2023;21(1):83. Published 2023 Aug 13. doi:10.1186/s12969-023-00870-3
Sharmila Masli, PhD
Abstract: Tear Biomarkers for Differential Diagnosis of Sjögren’s vs. non-Sjögren’s Dry Eye
Contributions: Associate Professor, Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Graduate Medical Sciences; Member of the OMERACT Sjögren’s Working Group; Associate Editor for Antigen Presenting Cell Biology
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Masli S, Akpek EK. Reduced tear thrombospondin-1/matrix metalloproteinase-9 ratio can aid in detecting Sjögren’s syndrome etiology in patients with dry eye. Clin Transl Sci. 2022;15(8):1999-2009. doi:10.1111/cts.133162019
Emily Lanzel, DDS, MS
Abstract: Salivary Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Childhood Sjögren’s
Contributions: Clinical Assistant Professor of Oral Pathology, Radiology, & Medicine at the University of Iowa School of Dentistry and Dental Clinics
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Gomez Hernandez MP, Starman EE, Davis AB, et al. A distinguishing profile of chemokines, cytokines and biomarkers in the saliva of children with Sjögren’s syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2021;60(10):4765-4777. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keab098
Kristi Koelsch, PhD
Abstract: Salivary Anti-Ro Defines a New Phenotype of Sjögren’s
Contributions: Associate Professor at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (UOHSC) and Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF). Dedicated 10 years as a Sjögren’s research group member at UOHSC and OMRF, where her contributions significantly impacted the understanding of B cell and antibody involvement in Sjögren’s. Though she passed away in 2022, Dr. Koelsch’s contributions endure through ongoing publications and citations of her research.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Koelsch KA, Cavett J, Smith K, et al. Evidence of Alternative Modes of B Cell Activation Involving Acquired Fab Regions of N-Glycosylation in Antibody-Secreting Cells Infiltrating the Labial Salivary Glands of Patients With Sjögren’s Syndrome. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2018;70(7):1102-1113. doi:10.1002/art.40458
2018
Kimberly Jasmer, PhD
Abstract: P2Y2 Receptor as Therapeutic Target in a Sjögren's Mouse Model
Contributions: Assistant Professor Oral Immunology & Infectious Diseases at University of Louisville School of Dentistry; 2024-2025 President-elect for Salivary Research Group (SRG) and 2023-2024 SRG Program Chair within the International Association for Dental Research (IADR)
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Jasmer KJ, Woods LT, Forti KM, et al. P2Y2 receptor antagonism resolves sialadenitis and improves salivary flow in a Sjögren's syndrome mouse model. Arch Oral Biol. 2021;124:105067. doi:10.1016/j.archoralbio.2021.105067
Melodie Lynn Weller, PhD
Abstract: The Impact of a Global Increase in Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) exposure on the Incidence of Sjögren's Diagnosis
Contributions: Assistant professor, Division of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine at University of Utah, Patent for instrument to measure salivary flow
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Weller ML, Gardener MR, Bogus ZC, et al. Hepatitis Delta Virus Detected in Salivary Glands of Sjögren's Syndrome Patients and Recapitulates a Sjögren's Syndrome-Like Phenotype in Vivo. Pathog Immun. 2016;1(1):12-40. doi:10.20411/pai.v1i1.72 n
Yee Ling Wu, PhD
Abstract: Genetic and Phenotypic Polymorphisms of Complement C4 in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren's
Contributions: Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Lundtoft C, Sjöwall C, Rantapää-Dahlqvist S, Bengtsson AA, Jönsen A, Pucholt P, Wu YL, et al. Strong Association of Combined Genetic Deficiencies in the Classical Complement Pathway with Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Primary Sjögren's Syndrome. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2022 Nov;74(11):1842-1850. doi: 10.1002/art.42270. Epub 2022 Oct 7. PubMed PMID: 35729719; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC9828039.
2017
Daniela Čiháková, MD, PhD
Abstract: Epithelial Cells and Innate Lymphoid Cells Collaborative Role in the Pathogenesis of Primary Sjögren's
Contributions: Former Director of World Health Organization Collaborating Center; Currently, Professor of Pathology; Associate Director of Clinical Immunology Laboratory at John’s Hopkins School of Medicine
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Ciháková D, Talor MV, Barin JG, et al. Sex differences in a murine model of Sjögren's syndrome. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009;1173:378-383. doi:10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.04760.x
Danielle Marie Robertson, OD, PhD
Abstract: Comparative Structural and Molecular Analysis of Tear and Salivary Derived Exosomes in Sjögren's
Contributions: Professor, Department of Ophthalmology at University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center; Director of the Advanced Dry Eye Specialty Clinic at UT Southwestern. Only optometrist in the nation ever to receive a prestigious Scientific Career Development Award from Research to Prevent Blindness.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Saraf N, Ramachandran RA, Cao M, Lemoff A, Baniasadi H, Robertson DM. Serum-derived extracellular vesicles for the treatment of severe ocular surface disease. Ocul Surf. 2024;34:317-325. doi:10.1016/j.jtos.2024.08.009
2016
Nancy McNamara, PhD
Abstract: Tear Fluid and Serum Levels of Cathepsin S and its Endogenous Inhibitor Cystatin C as Biomarkers for Sjögren's
Contributions: Served as a clinical investigator for the Sjögren’s International Collaborative Clinical Alliance (SICCA) (2007-2012); Currently, Professor, University of California (UC) Berkeley School of Optometry; Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Chief, UC Berkeley Sjogren’s Clinic; Co-Chief, UC Berkeley Dry Eye Clinic
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: McNamara NA, Ge S, Lee SM, Enghauser AM, Kuehl L, Chen FY, Gallup M, McKown RL. Reduced levels of lacritin are associated with corneal neuropathy in patients with the ocular component of Sjögren's syndrome. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2016, Oct;57(13):5237-5243. ISSN: 1552-5783
2015
Marit Hoeyberg Aure, PhD
Abstract: Cell Lineage Analysis in Lacrimal gland Maintenance and Repair
Contributions: Staff Scientist at Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Aure, M.H., Symonds, J.M., Villapudua, C.U. et al. FGFR2 is essential for salivary gland duct homeostasis and MAPK-dependent seromucous acinar cell differentiation. Nat Commun 14, 6485 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-42243-0
Mary Edman-Woolcott, PhD
Abstract: Tear Fluid and Serum Levels of Cathepsin S and its Endogenous Inhibitor Cystatin C as Biomarkers for Sjögren's
Contributions: Assistant Professor of Research Ophthalmology at Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Edman MC, Janga SR, Meng Z, et al. Increased Cathepsin S activity associated with decreased protease inhibitory capacity contributes to altered tear proteins in Sjögren's Syndrome patients. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):11044. Published 2018 Jul 23. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-29411-9
2013
Maria Kukuruzinska, PhD
Abstract: Functional Role of the Hippo pathway in Sjögren's
Contributions: Co-founded an international collaboration, the Norwegian-United States Initiative on Sjogren’s Syndrome (NUSSIS), that brings together basic researchers and clinicians from the University of Oslo, University at Albany-SUNY, University of Florida, and Boston University School of Dental Medicine.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Enger, T.B., Samad-Zadeh, A., Bouchie, M.P., Skarstein, K., Galtung, H.K., Mera, T., Walker, J., Menko, A.S., Varelas, X., Faustman, D.L., Jensen, J.L., and Kukuruzinska, MA. (2013). The Hippo signaling pathway is required for salivary gland development and its dysregulation is associated with Sjogren’s syndrome. Lab Invest. 93, 1203-1218.
Ana Paola Cotrim, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Immune-phenotyping and iPSC-related disease modeling in Sjögren's Syndrome (renewed in 2014)
Contributions: Scientist and Clinician at National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research for 11 years; Currently, Research Scientist at National Cancer Institute since 2019
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Corden A, Handelman B, Yin H, Cotrim A, Alevizos I, Chiorini JA. Neutralizing antibodies against adeno-associated viruses in Sjögren's patients: implications for gene therapy. Gene Ther. 2017 Apr;24(4):241-244. doi: 10.1038/gt.2017.1. Epub 2017 Feb 2. PMID: 28150697; PMCID: PMC5810933.
In honor of International Day of Women and Girls in Science on February 11th, we are recognizing women for their amazing work in Sjögren’s (SjD) research. These talented women have either received grants from the Foundation for their work in Sjögren’s research and/or made significant contributions to Sjögren’s research while also increasing awareness and/ or improving patient care. While it is impossible for us to include every woman who has made significant contributions to the field, we have featured a select few U.S.-based women scientists and listed all of our grant recipients and their contributions from 2013 to present. While this list is not all inclusive of the talented women that have contributed to Sjögren’s research nor all the accomplishments made by the women mentioned, we truly have some of the most dedicated women scientists working in Sjögren’s research. We are grateful for their contributions and the influence they have as mentors and leaders in Sjögren’s.
Featured Women Scientists Continuing to Rise as Stars in Sjögren’s Research
Dr. Sara McCoy, MD, PhD, has been at the forefront of changing the landscape of research in Sjögren’s as a clinician scientist, as seen by, for example, her work as co-chair of the Sjögren’s Working Group for Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT), an organization dedicated to building better diagnostic measures and clinical outcomes for patients. She is a faculty member in the Division of Rheumatology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she started a Sjögren’s Clinic in 2016 and later built a Sjögren’s biorepository (a facility that stores and manages biological samples for research and laboratory use.) She was the recipient of a High Impact Grant from the Foundation in 2021 for her research proposal titled, “Comprehensive profiling of Sjögren’s autoantibodies identified from a novel whole peptidome array.” This work— now published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases— led to the discovery of novel autoantibodies that could potentially be used to diagnose Sjögren’s in patients who are SSA antibody negative, which is believed to be approximately 30-40% of the patient population with Sjögren’s. Overall, Dr. McCoy has been an author on more than 40 publications since 2012, some of which are included below.
In 2023, Dr. McCoy was named as one of six investigators selected to receive funding from the Office of Women’s Health Research Leadership Scholars Program for her work, where the long-term goal is to generate therapies that target the pathogenic role of salivary gland mesenchymal stromal cells (SG-MSCs) in Sjögren’s. As a rheumatologist, Dr. McCoy also spends her time creating and presenting educational material for other practicing healthcare professionals and medical students, where she is dedicated to improving patient care management and awareness for Sjögren’s. Dr. McCoy also serves as a member of the Board of Directors for the Sjögren’s Foundation.
Notable Publications:
Dr. Rachael Gordon, MD, PhD, is a rising star in Sjögren’s research and rheumatology. She recently
accepted the position of Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Rheumatology and clinical Immunology at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). She started the first Sjögren’s Center at UPMC, which provides comprehensive care for patients with Sjögren’s and is building a translational research program to better understand Sjögren’s and advance research for innovative therapies. In 2023, Dr. Gordon was accepted into the OMERACT Fellows Program that focuses on providing early-career researchers and clinicians with opportunities to engage with experienced mentors from around the world and develop relevant career skills. As an OMERACT fellow, Dr. Gordon has worked with others in the Sjögren’s Working Group to identify the core domains for SjD to be used in interventional clinical trials.
Though her prior research focus was determining disease mechanisms in lupus, she has since focused her lab’s research on Sjögren’s. She was awarded with a Pilot Research Grant from the Foundation in 2023 for her proposal titled, “Investigating the Role of IL-12 in Sjögren’s Disease Pathogenesis.” Recently, she was awarded the Distinguished Fellow Award from the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence
2024, which recognizes clinical and research fellows who are in a rheumatology fellowship training program and who have performed meritoriously.
Notable Publications:
Dr. Dana DiRenzo, MD, MHS, has been leading the way for improving the quality of life for patients with Sjögren’s. She completed her rheumatology fellowship at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where she subsequently became a faculty member and joined their Sjögren’s Center. There, she was a member of the Mindfulness Team that developed meditations aimed at stress reduction and improvement of quality of life in people with rheumatic diseases. In 2021, Dr. DiRenzo joined the Penn Sjögren’s Center at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) as an assistant professor of clinical Medicine. She also serves on the steering committee for OMERACT and actively contributes to the Sjögren’s and Myositis Working Groups. She leads the Prospective Longitudinal Study to Understand Sjögren's (PLUS) at UPenn. This year, Dr. DiRenzo was awarded the Foundation’s Dynamic Research Grant for her proposal titled, “Development of a Core Outcomes Set of Domains for Sjögren’s Disease.”
Notable Publications:
Highlighted Members of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation and Leaders in Sjögren’s Research
Dr. Vatinee Bunya, MD, MSCE, is an expert in the study of dry eye and ocular surface diseases. She cares for patients with dry eye and Sjögren’s, and the focus of her research is to develop better ways to measure dry eye and to screen patients for Sjögren’s.
Contributions
Harold G. Scheie Chair & Associate Professor of Ophthalmology; Co-Director, Penn Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Center; Director, Women in Ophthalmology Mentoring Initiative, Scheie Eye Institute, University of Pennsylvania; Director of Clinical Research, Scheie Eye Institute; Member of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
Dr. Vidya Sankar, DMD, MHS, is an expert in oral medicine research with research expertise in salivary gland dysfunction that includes study in Sjögren's, oral mucosal diseases, and oral complications of cancer therapy. She specializes in research on oral manifestations underlying systemic disease.
Contributions
Associate Professor, Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences at Tufts School of Dental Medicine; Division Director for Oral Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Tufts School of Dental Medicine; Program Director for Oral Medicine residency; Immediate Past President (2023-2024) of the Executive Committee, American Academy of Oral Medicine (AAOM); Associate Editor in the Oral Medicine Section of the Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology, Oral Radiology (OOOO) journal; Treasurer of the Executive Committee on the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
Dr. Ava Wu, DDS, is an oral medicine specialist. She is an expert in studying the development of Sjögren’s and the clinical management of oral manifestations of Sjögren’s. She has published over 50 articles on aspects related to Sjögren’s and lectures frequently on the topic. Dr. Wu served on the Board of Directors for the Sjögren’s Foundation and dedicated eight years of service.
Contributions
Professor, Orofacial Sciences at University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry; Director of the Sjögren’s Clinic, UCSF; Former member of the Board of Directors, Sjögren’s Foundation
Selected Sjögren's-Related Publications
Dr. Caroline H. Shiboski, DDS, PhD, MPH, is a world-renowned expert in Sjögren’s research and focuses on the oral manifestations caused by immune system dysfunction, which includes Sjögren’s, oral cancers, and infectious diseases. She contributed significantly to the classification criteria used in clinical trials for Sjögren’s and is an active participant in many international working groups, including OMERACT and STAMP (you can read about her work with STAMP in the Nov/Dec issue of Conquering Sjögren's on page 18.)
Contributions
Professor, Orofacial Sciences at University of California San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry; Lead principal investigator for Sjögren’s Team for Accelerating Medicines Partnership (STAMP); Primary Author for American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism classification criteria for Sjögren’s; Contributor to Sjögren’s Working Group, OMERACT
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication
List of Women Foundation Research Grant Recipients
2024
Jennifer King, MD, PhD
Abstract: Molecular Phenotyping of Treatment Responsive Sjögren’s Patients
Contributions: Associate Professor at the University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine; Serves as a significant contributor to the Foundation’s Peripheral Nervous System Clinical Guidelines and alignment of Neurology and Rheumatology nomenclature
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Noaiseh G, Deboo A, King JK, et al. Recommendations for Aligned Nomenclature of Peripheral Nervous System Disorders Across Rheumatology and Neurology. Arthritis Rheumatol. Published online November 3, 2024. doi:10.1002/art.43050
Abigail Koppes, PhD
Abstract: Parsing Dysautonomia in a Dish: Neural Exposure to Exogenous Sjögren’s Patient Derived Serum
Contributions: Associate Professor, Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University; Recipient of the NIH R21 Trailblazer in 2017; Co-investigator on a 2019 American Heart Association Innovative Project Award; Co-investigator on a 2016 NIH Biomedical Research Partnership R01 between Northeastern, MIT, and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Note: This is the first time Dr. Koppes is working in Sjögren’s research, but she has created an organ-on-a- chip system to look at neuron responses after inflammatory cues. Here is an article on the development of this system: Hosic S, Bindas AJ, Puzan ML, et al. Rapid Prototyping of Multilayer Microphysiological Systems. ACS Biomater Sci Eng. 2021;7(7):2949-2963. doi:10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00190
Eiko Yamada, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Exploring Target Cells Contributing Higher Interferon Status Through cGAS-STING Pathway in Sjögren’s Disease
Contributions: Research fellow, Salivary Disorders Unit, National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Gupta S, Yamada E, Nakamura H, et al. Inhibition of JAK-STAT pathway corrects salivary gland inflammation and interferon driven immune activation in Sjögren’s disease. Ann Rheum Dis. 2024;83(8):1034-1047. Published 2024 Jul 15. doi:10.1136/ard-2023-224842
2023
Anat Galor, MD, MSPH
Abstract: Defining and Understanding Neurologic Manifestations of Sjögren’s Based on Ocular Surface Phenotype
Contributions: Professor of Ophthalmology at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami; Head of Ocular Surface Program Miami Veteran Affairs Medical Center
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Sanchez V, Dobzinski N, Fox R, Galor A. Rethinking Sjögren Beyond Inflammation: Considering the Role of Nerves in Driving Disease Manifestations. Eye Contact Lens. 2024;50(5):200-207. doi:10.1097/ICL.0000000000001068
Note: Dr. Galor was also awarded a Foundation grant in 2016 for her abstract: Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) in Sjögren's, which led to the following publication: Watane A, Cavuoto KM, Rojas M, et al. Fecal Microbial Transplant in Individuals With Immune-Mediated Dry Eye. Am J Ophthalmol. 2022;233:90-100. doi:10.1016/j.ajo.2021.06.022
2021
Addy Alt-Holland, PhD
Abstract: Metabolic profiles of salivary and epidermal biomarkers for Sjögren’s diagnosis
Contributions: Professor, School of Dental Medicine, Endodontics at Tufts University; President of The Society form In Vitro Biology Board of Directors
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Alt-Holland A, Huang X, Mendez T, et al. Identification of Salivary Metabolic Signatures Associated with Primary Sjögren’s Disease. Molecules. 2023;28(15):5891. Published 2023 Aug 5. doi:10.3390/molecules28155891
Cintia S. de Paiva, MD, PhD
Abstract: Investigating oral and conjunctival gene transcriptome signature in Sjögren’s at the single cell level
Contributions: Professor, Caroline Elles Endowed Professorship, Department of Ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine; President, International Ocular Surface Society; Editor-in-Chief of The Ocular Surface journal
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Schaefer L, Trujillo-Vargas CM, Midani FS, Pflugfelder SC, Britton RA, de Paiva CS. Gut Microbiota From Sjögren syndrome Patients Causes Decreased T Regulatory Cells in the Lymphoid Organs and Desiccation-Induced Corneal Barrier Disruption in Mice. Front Med (Lausanne). 2022;9:852918. Published 2022 Mar 9. doi:10.3389/ fmed.2022.852918
2020
Seunghee Cha, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Integrated Transcriptomic Profiling of Recurrent Parotitis in Pediatric Sjögren’s for Assessment of Mitochondrial RNA Regulators
Contributions: Professor, Department of Oral Medicine, Director of Center for Orphaned Autoimmune Disorders (COAD) at the University of Florida College of Dentistry, Member of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) Childhood Sjogren Disease (cSjD) Workgroup and the International cSjD Workgroup
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Drew K, Kronlage R, Cha S, Thatayatikom A, Schrepfer T. Long-term efficacy of sialendoscopy in treating childhood Sjögren’s disease with chronological monitoring by salivary gland ultrasonography: A novel approach. Pediatr Rheumatol Online J. 2023;21(1):83. Published 2023 Aug 13. doi:10.1186/s12969-023-00870-3
Sharmila Masli, PhD
Abstract: Tear Biomarkers for Differential Diagnosis of Sjögren’s vs. non-Sjögren’s Dry Eye
Contributions: Associate Professor, Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Graduate Medical Sciences; Member of the OMERACT Sjögren’s Working Group; Associate Editor for Antigen Presenting Cell Biology
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Masli S, Akpek EK. Reduced tear thrombospondin-1/matrix metalloproteinase-9 ratio can aid in detecting Sjögren’s syndrome etiology in patients with dry eye. Clin Transl Sci. 2022;15(8):1999-2009. doi:10.1111/cts.133162019
Emily Lanzel, DDS, MS
Abstract: Salivary Biomarkers for Diagnosis of Childhood Sjögren’s
Contributions: Clinical Assistant Professor of Oral Pathology, Radiology, & Medicine at the University of Iowa School of Dentistry and Dental Clinics
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Gomez Hernandez MP, Starman EE, Davis AB, et al. A distinguishing profile of chemokines, cytokines and biomarkers in the saliva of children with Sjögren’s syndrome. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2021;60(10):4765-4777. doi:10.1093/rheumatology/keab098
Kristi Koelsch, PhD
Abstract: Salivary Anti-Ro Defines a New Phenotype of Sjögren’s
Contributions: Associate Professor at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (UOHSC) and Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF). Dedicated 10 years as a Sjögren’s research group member at UOHSC and OMRF, where her contributions significantly impacted the understanding of B cell and antibody involvement in Sjögren’s. Though she passed away in 2022, Dr. Koelsch’s contributions endure through ongoing publications and citations of her research.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Koelsch KA, Cavett J, Smith K, et al. Evidence of Alternative Modes of B Cell Activation Involving Acquired Fab Regions of N-Glycosylation in Antibody-Secreting Cells Infiltrating the Labial Salivary Glands of Patients With Sjögren’s Syndrome. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2018;70(7):1102-1113. doi:10.1002/art.40458
2018
Kimberly Jasmer, PhD
Abstract: P2Y2 Receptor as Therapeutic Target in a Sjögren's Mouse Model
Contributions: Assistant Professor Oral Immunology & Infectious Diseases at University of Louisville School of Dentistry; 2024-2025 President-elect for Salivary Research Group (SRG) and 2023-2024 SRG Program Chair within the International Association for Dental Research (IADR)
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Jasmer KJ, Woods LT, Forti KM, et al. P2Y2 receptor antagonism resolves sialadenitis and improves salivary flow in a Sjögren's syndrome mouse model. Arch Oral Biol. 2021;124:105067. doi:10.1016/j.archoralbio.2021.105067
Melodie Lynn Weller, PhD
Abstract: The Impact of a Global Increase in Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) exposure on the Incidence of Sjögren's Diagnosis
Contributions: Assistant professor, Division of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine at University of Utah, Patent for instrument to measure salivary flow
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Weller ML, Gardener MR, Bogus ZC, et al. Hepatitis Delta Virus Detected in Salivary Glands of Sjögren's Syndrome Patients and Recapitulates a Sjögren's Syndrome-Like Phenotype in Vivo. Pathog Immun. 2016;1(1):12-40. doi:10.20411/pai.v1i1.72 n
Yee Ling Wu, PhD
Abstract: Genetic and Phenotypic Polymorphisms of Complement C4 in the Pathogenesis of Sjögren's
Contributions: Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Loyola University Chicago
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Lundtoft C, Sjöwall C, Rantapää-Dahlqvist S, Bengtsson AA, Jönsen A, Pucholt P, Wu YL, et al. Strong Association of Combined Genetic Deficiencies in the Classical Complement Pathway with Risk of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Primary Sjögren's Syndrome. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2022 Nov;74(11):1842-1850. doi: 10.1002/art.42270. Epub 2022 Oct 7. PubMed PMID: 35729719; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC9828039.
2017
Daniela Čiháková, MD, PhD
Abstract: Epithelial Cells and Innate Lymphoid Cells Collaborative Role in the Pathogenesis of Primary Sjögren's
Contributions: Former Director of World Health Organization Collaborating Center; Currently, Professor of Pathology; Associate Director of Clinical Immunology Laboratory at John’s Hopkins School of Medicine
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Ciháková D, Talor MV, Barin JG, et al. Sex differences in a murine model of Sjögren's syndrome. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009;1173:378-383. doi:10.1111/j.1749-6632.2009.04760.x
Danielle Marie Robertson, OD, PhD
Abstract: Comparative Structural and Molecular Analysis of Tear and Salivary Derived Exosomes in Sjögren's
Contributions: Professor, Department of Ophthalmology at University of Texas (UT) Southwestern Medical Center; Director of the Advanced Dry Eye Specialty Clinic at UT Southwestern. Only optometrist in the nation ever to receive a prestigious Scientific Career Development Award from Research to Prevent Blindness.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Saraf N, Ramachandran RA, Cao M, Lemoff A, Baniasadi H, Robertson DM. Serum-derived extracellular vesicles for the treatment of severe ocular surface disease. Ocul Surf. 2024;34:317-325. doi:10.1016/j.jtos.2024.08.009
2016
Nancy McNamara, PhD
Abstract: Tear Fluid and Serum Levels of Cathepsin S and its Endogenous Inhibitor Cystatin C as Biomarkers for Sjögren's
Contributions: Served as a clinical investigator for the Sjögren’s International Collaborative Clinical Alliance (SICCA) (2007-2012); Currently, Professor, University of California (UC) Berkeley School of Optometry; Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Chief, UC Berkeley Sjogren’s Clinic; Co-Chief, UC Berkeley Dry Eye Clinic
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: McNamara NA, Ge S, Lee SM, Enghauser AM, Kuehl L, Chen FY, Gallup M, McKown RL. Reduced levels of lacritin are associated with corneal neuropathy in patients with the ocular component of Sjögren's syndrome. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2016, Oct;57(13):5237-5243. ISSN: 1552-5783
2015
Marit Hoeyberg Aure, PhD
Abstract: Cell Lineage Analysis in Lacrimal gland Maintenance and Repair
Contributions: Staff Scientist at Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Aure, M.H., Symonds, J.M., Villapudua, C.U. et al. FGFR2 is essential for salivary gland duct homeostasis and MAPK-dependent seromucous acinar cell differentiation. Nat Commun 14, 6485 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-42243-0
Mary Edman-Woolcott, PhD
Abstract: Tear Fluid and Serum Levels of Cathepsin S and its Endogenous Inhibitor Cystatin C as Biomarkers for Sjögren's
Contributions: Assistant Professor of Research Ophthalmology at Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Edman MC, Janga SR, Meng Z, et al. Increased Cathepsin S activity associated with decreased protease inhibitory capacity contributes to altered tear proteins in Sjögren's Syndrome patients. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):11044. Published 2018 Jul 23. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-29411-9
2013
Maria Kukuruzinska, PhD
Abstract: Functional Role of the Hippo pathway in Sjögren's
Contributions: Co-founded an international collaboration, the Norwegian-United States Initiative on Sjogren’s Syndrome (NUSSIS), that brings together basic researchers and clinicians from the University of Oslo, University at Albany-SUNY, University of Florida, and Boston University School of Dental Medicine.
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Enger, T.B., Samad-Zadeh, A., Bouchie, M.P., Skarstein, K., Galtung, H.K., Mera, T., Walker, J., Menko, A.S., Varelas, X., Faustman, D.L., Jensen, J.L., and Kukuruzinska, MA. (2013). The Hippo signaling pathway is required for salivary gland development and its dysregulation is associated with Sjogren’s syndrome. Lab Invest. 93, 1203-1218.
Ana Paola Cotrim, DDS, PhD
Abstract: Immune-phenotyping and iPSC-related disease modeling in Sjögren's Syndrome (renewed in 2014)
Contributions: Scientist and Clinician at National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research for 11 years; Currently, Research Scientist at National Cancer Institute since 2019
Selected Sjögren’s-related Publication: Corden A, Handelman B, Yin H, Cotrim A, Alevizos I, Chiorini JA. Neutralizing antibodies against adeno-associated viruses in Sjögren's patients: implications for gene therapy. Gene Ther. 2017 Apr;24(4):241-244. doi: 10.1038/gt.2017.1. Epub 2017 Feb 2. PMID: 28150697; PMCID: PMC5810933.