The National Institutes of Health/National Institutes of Nursing Research intramural research program and the development of the National Institutes of Health Symptom Science Model

Abstract

The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) intramural research program conducts basic and biobehavioral symptom science research and provides training opportunities to the next generation of scientists. Recently, the NINR developed the Symptom Science Model to guide research. The model begins by identifying a complex symptom, which is then characterized into a phenotype with biological and clinical data, followed by the application of genomic and other discovery methodologies to illuminate targets for therapeutic and clinical interventions. Using the Symptom Science Model, the intramural program organizes and implements biobehavioral, symptom management, and tissue injury research. The model is also used as a framework for training and career development opportunities including on-campus trainings and research fellowship. The scientific goal of the intramural program is to enhance patient outcomes including health-related quality of life. Achieving this goal requires a long-term vision, continued resource investments, and a commitment to mentoring our next generation of scientists.

Keywords: Biomarkers; Genotype; Model; Phenotype; Research; Symptom science.

Figure 1

NIH Symptom Science Model The National Institutes of Health Symptom Science Model was developed to guide research. It begins with the presentation of a symptom, the symptom undergoes phenotypic characterization, then biomarkers are identified and this ultimately leads to clinical applications resulting in symptom reduction and improvement.