Marisa Wexler, MS, senior science writer —

Marisa holds a Master of Science in cellular and molecular pathology from the University of Pittsburgh, where she studied novel genetic drivers of ovarian cancer. Her areas of expertise include cancer biology, immunology, and genetics, and she has worked as a science writing and communications intern for the Genetics Society of America.

Articles by Marisa Wexler

Cytokine Profiles Identify Risk of PAH in SSc

Levels of signaling molecules called cytokines can be used to identify people with systemic scleroderma (SSc) who are at highest risk of developing abnormally high blood pressure in their lungs, a new study reports. The study, “Cytokine signatures differentiate systemic sclerosis patients at high versus low…

Income, Education May Affect How Patients View Their Capabilities

Among people with systemic scleroderma, education and income are major determinants of perceived functional ability, a new study indicates. Findings also point to skin involvement and age as substantial determinants of functionality. “These results may serve to give clinicians novel insight into the predictive factors of patient function and…

Phase 2 Trial of PRA023 in SSc-ILD Patients Planned for Next Year

Prometheus Biosciences is planning a clinical trial of its investigational anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic medication PRA023 in people with systemic scleroderma-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD), a form of scleroderma characterized by inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs. The Phase 2 study, called ATHENA-SSc-ILD, is planned to launch early…

Scleroderma Renal Crisis More Common in Blacks, Study Finds

Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC), a rare and severe manifestation of systemic scleroderma, is disproportionately common in Blacks, a new study reports. “Black race was independently associated with a higher risk of future SRC,” its researchers wrote. “Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms that underlie this important association.”…

Surveyed Patients Report Satisfaction With Treatment

Most scleroderma patients who responded to a U.S.-based online survey report being satisfied with their current medications and are not considering switching treatments. However, only about half of survey respondents reported being satisfied with their overall life quality, or optimistic about the future, perhaps highlighting gaps in care for…

Pitt Study Testing COVID-19 Vaccines in Autoimmune Diseases

A new study being conducted at the University of Pittsburgh is testing the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines in people with scleroderma and other autoimmune diseases. The CoVER study seeks to enroll adults, 18 or older, who have rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, myositis, or…