Solutions to the Gordian knot: Interprofessional education and the pain crisis in America

Dr. Beth B. Murinson is an Associate Professor of Neurology and has been a faculty member in the Department of Neurology since 2002. Her clinical and research interests are in neuromuscular diseases with special emphasis on peripheral neuropathies, neuropathic pain and Stiff-person syndrome. Dr. Murinson has participated in a wide range of research investigations including nerve structure and function, immune-mediated neurological disorders such as Stiff-person syndrome and multi-disciplinary studies of pain originating from nerve injury and dysfunction. She has recently served as a Visiting Lecturer at King’s College, University of London.

Current research includes the modeling and characterization of complex assemblies of small nerve fibers important in the sensation of pain. Major alterations in small fibers following painful nerve injuries have been identified at Hopkins and it is anticipated that these findings will expand treatment strategies for painful peripheral neuropathies. Additional research projects include developing a new model system to studies peripheral nerve responses to the degeneration of nearby nerve fibers and research on the basic pathophysiology of Stiff-person Syndrome, a rare neuroimmunological condition. Planned research includes developing methods to treat ulnar neuropathy and advancing the understanding of Stiff-person syndrome.