Scleroderma Center

Director
Dr. Robert Lafyatis is Professor of Medicine and the Thomas Medsger Professor in Arthritis Research at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, where he directs the UPMC and University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center. A clinical rheumatologist and translational researcher, Dr. Lafyatis investigates the molecular mechanisms driving fibrosis, inflammation, and autoimmunity in systemic sclerosis. His work has pioneered the use of molecular biomarkers to assess treatment response and has advanced the design of clinical trials for novel scleroderma therapies. Through his research leadership, he aims to translate scientific discovery into more effective treatments for patients with systemic sclerosis.

Clinical Director
Dr. Robyn Domsic is Associate Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director of the UPMC and University of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Center. Her research focuses on improving clinical care and outcomes for individuals with systemic sclerosis through risk prediction, enhanced clinical trial design, and novel approaches to managing Raynaud phenomenon. She leads an NIH-funded clinical trial investigating vascular-targeted therapy for Raynaud symptoms and vascular dysfunction in scleroderma. Dr. Domsic’s work integrates patient-centered research with clinical innovation to improve diagnosis, management, and quality of life for those affected by scleroderma.

Dr. Fuschiotti’s research investigates how T cells contribute to fibrosis in systemic sclerosis, particularly the role of IL-13–producing CD8+ T cells. Her work aims to identify molecular pathways that could be targeted to prevent or reverse fibrotic tissue remodeling.

Dr. Torok is a pediatric rheumatologist and Director of the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Scleroderma Clinic, which provides care for children with localized and systemic scleroderma. Her research focuses on understanding disease mechanisms and improving disease activity measurement in pediatric scleroderma, including leadership of the National Registry for Childhood Onset Scleroderma (NRCOS).

Ms. Freno is a Family Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in rheumatology and clinical research. She provides comprehensive care for patients with scleroderma and supports clinical trials aimed at improving treatment options.

Ms. Lafoon is a Clinical Research Coordinator managing the Scleroderma Center’s research database and patient recruitment for clinical trials. She also edits The Collagen Connection newsletter.

Ms. Morse is a Laboratory Manager with expertise in immunobiology and translational research. She supports ongoing studies in the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology focused on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of scleroderma.

Ms. Roth serves as Biorepository Manager for the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, overseeing specimen collection and management to support scleroderma research initiatives.

Ms. Tabib is a senior laboratory specialist whose work supports high-resolution cellular and molecular studies of fibrosis and inflammation in systemic sclerosis.

Ms. Wunsch is a Clinical Research Assistant who coordinates registry enrollment and data collection for scleroderma research studies within the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology.

Ms. Benson is a Clinical Research Coordinator supporting patient enrollment and study management for scleroderma clinical trials. She brings experience from multiple departments across the University of Pittsburgh in both laboratory and clinical research settings.