Abstract Presenter: Gayathri Guru Murthy, MS, PhD Candidate, University of Rochester
Abstract Session: Abstracts: Systemic Sclerosis & Related Disorders – Basic and Translational Science (1934-1939), 3–4:30 p.m. Monday, November 9
What is your abstract about?
Murthy: My poster and research explore the biological function and mechanism of IGFBP7 in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary hypertension (SSc-PH). This work will advance our understanding of SSc-PH and, hopefully, identify a therapeutic/drug target for SSc-PH.
Why did you decide to investigate this topic?
Murthy: My family has a history of autoimmune diseases, especially in most women who raised me, so when I got the chance to study systemic sclerosis (SSc), also an autoimmune disease affecting women, I saw it as a chance to contribute to women’s health research. It also helps that immunology has been my favorite subject since undergrad.
Studying IGFBP7 in SSc-PH gives us a chance to find a cure for this rare but high-mortality disease.
What are you working on next related to this research?
Murthy: Identifying more mechanisms and interactions of IGFBP7 in scleroderma and SSc-PH.
What excites you most about your work?
Murthy: I get to collaborate with many scientists to study different aspects of SSc. One of the main techniques I use is immunofluorescent microscopy, and every time I image a tissue as part of my experiments, it is as exciting and enthralling as the first time.
What are you most looking forward to at ACR Convergence 2026 in Orlando?
Murthy: Reconnecting with the ACR community and catching up with old friends and new. It is like homecoming.
THERE’S STILL TIME TO JOIN US
If you haven’t registered for ACR Convergence 2026, you can still register on-site at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, through November 11. All registered participants receive on-demand access to scientific sessions through September 30, 2027.
