The NIH Clinical Center

Clinical research is at the heart of the Clinical Center's mission. About 1,600 clinical research studies are under way at the Clinical Center, most of them sponsored by the institutes and centers at NIH. These different institutes, centers and divisions study diseases such as cancer, AIDS, heart trouble, eye problems, dental problems, depression and nerve diseases, to name just a few. Clinical studies are medical research studies (or protocols) in which human volunteers participate. Clinical trials are studies developing or investigating new treatments and medications for diseases and conditions. Natural history studies investigate normal human biology and the development of a particular disease. Screening studies determine if individuals may be suitable candidates for inclusion in a particular study. Training studies provide an opportunity for staff physicians and other health-care professionals to follow particular types of patients.