The NMM/OMM Research Team at the College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP) and COMP-Northwest (COMP-NW) is an interprofessional, multi-disciplinary group that conducts osteopathic research and osteopathic randomized controlled clinical trials that highlight the utility and efficacy of osteopathic medicine and provide insights into the uniqueness of osteopathic medical education and the profession.
OMT to Improve the COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Immune Response
RECENTLY COMPLETED
COVID-19 has impacted millions globally, and while vaccines have been pivotal in controlling the virus, improving their effectiveness became increasingly important as evidence of waning immunity emerged. A prior study with pilot data indicated that pairing OMT with the Hepatitis B vaccine significantly boosted immune responses.
In our trial, we investigated whether OMT, particularly lymphatic techniques, could enhance the immune response to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine. Findings from our study suggest that OMT boosts antibody production or helps the body more effectively circulate antibodies in the bloodstream, resulting in higher antibody levels and reduced severity and duration of breakthrough COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, no adverse events or significant differences in vaccine side effects were reported between OMT and control groups, confirming OMT's safety alongside vaccination. This could serve as a starting point for incorporating OMT in vaccine protocols.
Lymphatic OMT Protocol for Healthy Individuals: Immune-Biomarker Response
CURRENTLY RECRUITING 
Following the exciting results of our COVID-19 mRNA vaccine study—where OMT was shown to boost immune responses and reduce breakthrough symptoms—we’ve launched this new clinical trial to see if those benefits can be replicated in healthy individuals without vaccination.
This trial is designed to explore how OMT, light touch, and exercise affect the immune system comparatively. By analyzing different blood cell counts and important immune markers, we’re hoping to better understand how OMT strengthens the immune system and what’s happening behind the scenes. It’s a unique opportunity to dive deeper into how OMT could play a role in boosting overall immunity.
Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Perception Survey Study
ONGOING
Enrollment in Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O) programs is on the rise across the United States (U.S.), especially with the recent integration of osteopathic and allopathic medical training through the unification of the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Amidst this transformation of medical training in the U.S., Dr. Giusti and her team are delving into the perspectives of today's osteopathic medical students to uncover their motivations for choosing osteopathic medicine and their views on future career prospects within the profession.
What information were students given when deciding to apply for medical school? Is the osteopathic identity maintaining its distinctive nature, or is it being reshaped in the eyes of the next generation of osteopathic students due to the changing landscape of medical training? This research seeks to answer these vital questions.
Pre-Doctoral Teaching Fellow (PDTF) Alumni Survey Study
ONGOING 
Dr. Blumer has kicked off an exciting new survey study to explore how the NMM/OMM department’s Predoctoral Teaching Fellowship (PDTF) has influenced medical students’ careers over the years. The fellowship gives students a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of osteopathic principles, and we’re curious to see how it has shaped the professional paths of our alumni.
In this study, we’re connecting with PDTF alumni to learn how the program has impacted them in three important areas:
- Applying OMT in practice,
- Taking on leadership roles in the medical field, and
- Engaging in teaching and mentoring the next generation of osteopathic physicians.
We’re also comparing their experiences with those of graduates who didn’t participate in the fellowship to get a more complete picture of the program’s impact. Through this study, we hope to uncover valuable insights into how the PDTF has helped shape careers in osteopathic medicine and how it can continue to benefit future physicians.
Efficacy and Safety of OMT in Asthmatics
COMPLETED
Asthma is a leading cause of activity limitations and rising healthcare costs in the U.S., making it crucial to find new ways to help patients manage symptoms, reduce medication reliance, and improve lung function.
In this pilot study, Dr. Sanchez and his team set out to explore the potential of OMT as a valuable addition to asthma care for individuals with mild to moderate asthma. By using a combination of subjective and objective measures—such as the Asthma Control Test (ACT) questionnaire, peak flow readings, spirometry, pulse oximetry, and chest/diaphragm movement assessments—the team was able to track improvements over time.
This research not only provides preliminary evidence of OMT’s potential benefits but also lays the groundwork for larger studies that could help redefine asthma management and offer patients more holistic treatment options.
Unearthing Links to Osteopathic Cranial Concept
RECENTLY COMPLETED 
Since the introduction of osteopathic cranial manipulative medicine (OCMM) by William Garner Sutherland, osteopathic physicians have operated with the idea that the bones of the skull, or cranial sutures, exhibit subtle movement. This study explored whether the complex patterns of these sutures in humans hold clues to understanding this concept.
Dr. Blumer and her team compared the sutures in humans to five nonhuman primate species (like gorillas and chimpanzees) using CT scans. The results showed that human cranial sutures are significantly more complex than those of other primates. Her team believes that this complexity may support slight cranial movement and help absorb forces from activities like chewing. Humans' unique facial development and longer growth period may explain the more complex connections but further research is needed to understand how these complexities affect skull movement.
Laboratory Collaborations
Dr. Gary Pestano & Dr. Laura Peek, Biodesix, De Soto, KS
Dr. Bin Xie, Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, CA
Dr. Robert Hostoffer, Allergy/Immunology Associates, Cleveland, OH