Go to our Virtual Theater to view movies and images of pain-related activation in the brain.

Recent studies using positron emission tomography (PET) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have demonstrated that the cortical structures of the limbic system (i.e., the anterior cingulate cortex and the insular cortex), as well as sensory cortex areas SI and SII are involved in the perception of pain. In addition, studies have implicated a dissociation of the affective component of pain (unpleasantness) from the intensity of pain.

The purpose of the Pain Research Group's neuroimaging studies is to better understand the mechanisms of pain and other symptoms in the brain. Initial studies focused on determining the cortical representation of pain and analgesic action, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions such as mental imagery and distraction.

In our first neuroimaging study, we used fMRI to measure the pain-related activation in the brain and to explore how this activation is modulated by mental imagery. Currently, we are expanding the scope of this research to explore the combined effects of morphine and behavioral interventions on pain-related activation in the brain. In addition to pain, we are beginning to use neuroimaging methods to study the mechanisms and effects of other symptoms experienced by cancer patients as well. For example, we are using fMRI to examine the changes in cortical activation and brain function that are related to anemia and fatigue.