Division of Intramural Research
The Division of Intramural Research Program (DIR) at NCCIH conducts basic, clinical, and translational research focusing on the role of the brain in perceiving, modifying, and managing pain. Research projects include investigating the role of the brain in pain processing and control, and how factors such as emotion, attention, environment, and genetics affect pain perception.
The program includes research that explores how chronic pain produces changes in the brain that can modify how the brain reacts to pain medications like opioids. Commonly used complementary practices to control pain, such as meditation and yoga, are also investigated.
The program is an integrated basic science and clinical research effort, conducted at the behavioral, systems and cellular levels, exploiting the state-of-the-art research tools and resources at the NIH. Projects involve collaborative efforts with other intramural neuroscience, imaging, and mental and behavioral health research programs. Chronic pain disorders studied include fibromyalgia, back pain, irritable bowel syndrome, arthritis and more. The NCCIH DIR provides a rich environment for the training and development of clinical and basic scientists.
DIR Labs and Chiefs
News
NIH shifts non-mission-critical laboratory operations to minimal maintenance phase
March 20, 2020
NIH Intramural Blog: Yoga Helps Pain and Brain: Five Questions with Dr. Catherine Bushnell
September 09, 2019
Research Results: PIEZO2 Ion Channel Presents New Target for Pain Research
October 10, 2018
Research Results: Pain-Induced Changes in the Brain’s Opioid System May Explain the Limited Effectiveness of Opioid Therapy in Chronic Pain
May 22, 2018
Research Results: Study Provides New Information on Mechanisms Involved in Touch Sensation and Self-Perception of Body in Space
September 22, 2016
Article: How a 'Sixth Sense' Helps Simone Biles Fly, and the Rest of Us Walk (NPR)
Join a Study
Clinical and Scientific Assessment of Pain and Painful Disorders
Neural and Psychological Mechanisms of Pain Perception (ClinicalTrials.gov)
Understanding Pain Seminar Series—NIH Pain Special Interest Group
Acting Scientific Director:
Phone: 301-496-2222
Division of Intramural Research
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
National Institutes of Health
Bldg. 10, CRC, Room 4-1743 MSC 1302
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1302
