The IBMR functions as an incubator to create and disseminate cutting edge mind-body research that will enhance individual and community health.

Established in 1996, the Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research (IBMR) is the cornerstone of a broad research program at The Ohio State University in the field of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) – the study of how the brain interacts with the body's immune system. This field has evolved from a novel area of curiosity to an important scientific field, one that has meaningful implications for public health and great promise for enhancing medical treatments.

Our researchers represent expertise in the fields of immunology, virology, psychiatry, psychology, endocrinology, molecular biology, behavior, oncology and the neurosciences. Recent work by our researchers has shown that:

• Chronic stress can weaken the immune status of caregivers, thereby increasing their risk for certain diseases.
• High levels of psychological stress can impede wound healing, impairing recovery from minor procedures to major surgery.
• High levels of stress may interfere with the efficacy of bacterial and viral vaccines.
• Even among healthy, “happy” individuals, minor psychological stress can negatively impact health.