Overview of Rheumatology Research at Northwestern

Northwestern Rheumatology has faculty members involved in all phases of the cycle of medical research; from the lab bench to the bedside and back.  Medical research begins in a laboratory, with studies that are concerned with the fundamental biologic functions of the body's tissues and the ways in which those functions are disrupted in disease.  The knowledge generated in the laboratory is then validated in the real world, putting it to practical use and pointing the way towards actual changes in patient care.  Finally, analysis of the outcomes of current and new therapies allow us to identify areas where interventions are working or not working, and is the way by which new medicines and other new treatments come into widespread use in actual medical practice.
 
We also participate from time to time in clinical trials, which give our patients the opportunity to be among the first to receive new medications or other new forms of treatment.
 
Participation is always voluntary, and patients are never enrolled without their full knowledge and written consent.
 
More information about medical research at Northwestern Rheumatology is available at the links in the sidebar on the left.