Steven Vernino

Steven Vernino, M.D., Ph.D., is a Distinguished Teaching Professor and Vice Chair for Education and Faculty Affairs in the Department of Neurology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. He specializes in autoimmune neurological disorders, autonomic disorders, and neuromuscular disorders. His clinical roles include directing the Autonomic Disorders Fellowship Program and leading the MSA Clinic, designated as a Clinical Center of Excellence by the MSA Coalition. He has over 120 peer-reviewed publications and is a leader in the American Autonomic Society.

• Education: M.D. and Ph.D. (specific institutions unspecified).

Research Interests: Dr. Vernino's work focuses on autoimmune mechanisms in autonomic nervous system disorders, including autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy and paraneoplastic neurological syndromes. His lab investigates ion channel autoimmunity and its effects on nerve function. He collaborates on clinical trials for therapies like droxidopa and immunoglobulin treatments for POTS and autoimmune encephalitis.

Publications Trends: His recent work addresses therapies for autoimmune encephalitis, POTS clinical trials, and genetic aspects of autonomic disorders. He emphasizes improving diagnostic consistency in autonomic medicine.

• Awards: Multiple recognitions include the 2018 University of Texas Regents Outstanding Teacher Award and AAN honors.

Grants & Teams: Leads multidisciplinary clinics and collaborates on trials like the iSTAND POTS study. His lab (Vernino Lab) explores autoimmune neurological mechanisms.