Exploring the neural mechanisms of pain. 

The Apkarian Pain and Passions Lab is dedicated to studying acute and chronic pain through functional and structural brain imaging. In humans, we investigate the brain processes underlying touch and pain perception using non-invasive imaging techniques. In animal models, we combine imaging, electrophysiology and mathematical modeling of neuronal networks. Our goal is to understand the brain dynamics of touch and pain perception and apply this knowledge to alleviate human suffering, particularly by advancing new clinical approaches for treating chronic pain.