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JAMA Patient Page: Basic Science Research

JAMA Patient Page:
Basic Science Research

Basic science research is the investigation of a subject to increase knowledge and understanding about it. The information gathered from basic science research is essential for "translating" or applying new discoveries to patient care. For example, scientists might study certain types of cancer cells to observe how they multiply and grow in a lab. Other research models, such as studies involving animals, often are used to gain such knowledge. Basic research does not necessarily produce results that are immediately relevant for medical care, but the knowledge gained often is essential for progress in the various steps involved in new discoveries.

In medicine, basic science research aims to better understand certain diseases. Understanding the changes in cells and molecules associated with illnesses provides the knowledge that helps eventually find new ways to diagnose, treat and prevent a variety of ailments. Clinical research, on the other hand, usually involves testing medications and other treatments for specific illnesses and conditions.

The April 3, 2002, issue of JAMA is dedicated to basic science and translational research.

Value of Basic Science Research

Basic science research can help in a number of ways. It can provide

Information about genetic and environmental factors that increase disease risk, which may be useful for disease prevention or early treatment
Information leading to new drug treatments that cure illnesses or reduce symptoms
New findings that lead to advances in surgical tools and procedures that improve treatment and save lives
Information for the development of medical devices that improve quality of life (such as hearing aids or artificial limbs)

How Is Research Funded?

Continuous, well-funded basic science research is the key to new discoveries in medicine and other scientific fields. In the United States, the National Institutes of Health is the main federal agency that distributes taxpayers' money to universities for research. Other federal agencies, such as the National Science Foundation, also fund research. Private companies, philanthropies and voluntary health agencies are funding an increasing amount of research. Researchers compete for grants from these sources to fund their work.

For More Information

National Institute of General Medical Sciences
www.nigms.nih.gov

Research!America
(800) 366-2873
www.researchamerica.org

National Science Foundation
www.nsf.gov

Inform Yourself

To find this and previous JAMA Patient Pages, go to the Patient Page Index on JAMA's Web site at www.jama.com.

Related JAMA Patient Page

JAMA Patient Page: Navigating the Maze of Medical Research (July 15, 1998)

Sources: American Association for the Advancement of Science, Lasker Foundation, Mayo Clinic, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Science Foundation, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Lise M. Stevens, M.A., Writer
Cassio Lynm, M.A., Illustrator
Richard M. Glass, M.D., Editor

(JAMA. 2002; 287:1754)
Published in JAMA: April 3, 2002

The JAMA Patient Page is a public service of JAMA. The information and recommendations appearing on this page are appropriate in most instances, but they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis. For specific information concerning your personal medical condition, JAMA suggests that you consult your physician. This page may be reproduced noncommercially by physicians and other health care professionals to share with patients. Any other reproduction is subject to AMA approval. To purchase bulk reprints, call (718) 946-7424.