Interview with the IPS Principal Investigators: Antoinette van Laarhoven
Who are you and how did you become involved with IPS?
I am Antoinette van Laarhoven, Associate Professor at the Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit of Leiden University. Since completing my PhD, I've had the opportunity to dive deep into the fascinating world of placebo research. Collaborating with an inspiring team of researchers, including Andrea Evers, we conducted the first placebo study in the field of itch. This work sparked a series of placebo studies, consistently demonstrating the powerful influence of placebo effects. Subsequently, we established the Center for Interdisciplinary Placebo Studies (IPS) in Leiden, which has become an invaluable platform for connecting diverse fields to study placebo and nocebo effects, providing a strong foundation for team-based collaborations.
What is the focus of your current research, and why is this important?
Currently, my research primarily focuses on symptom perception in conditions associated with chronic itch and pain, which involve complex physiological and psychological processes. By exploring how these mechanisms interact, I aim to gain a deeper understanding of how patients perceive these symptoms and how they can be alleviated. This research is crucial because it paves the way for better treatment options for those suffering from chronic itch and pain—conditions that are becoming more prevalent and require innovative solutions.
What inspired you to pursue this research topic?
Coming from a biomedical background, I realized that while biological processes are important, they don’t tell the whole story of a patient's suffering. Psychological factors are just as crucial! Just think about it: why does the mere mention of the word "itchy" or watching someone scratch make you feel itchy? This phenomenon is an example of a nocebo-like effect, and it’s something we all experience in everyday life without even realizing it. This phenomenon has fueled my passion to dig deeper.
How does your research align with the mission and goals of IPS?
In alignment with the mission and goals of IPS, many of my studies are focused on investigating the underlying mechanisms of placebo and nocebo effects in itch and pain. At the same time, I am eager to explore innovative solutions that could improve patient outcomes. For instance, we are currently conducting a study to assess the effects of hypnotic suggestions combined with a virtual environment to reduce chronic itch in patients who continue to suffer despite their medical treatments. For my research, I regularly collaborate with patient representatives to gain invaluable input from the patients' perspective.
What impact do you hope your research will have, both in science and in society?
I hope my research will move the placebo field forward and, most importantly, help those who are suffering from chronic symptoms. By understanding how expectations shape perceptions, we can improve treatment outcomes and offer better relief to people living with pain and itch.
What are the next steps or future ambitions for your research?
An important next step is to continue working closely with patient representatives to ensure our research is grounded in their actual needs. Through joint collaboration between patient representatives and scientists, we can create even more impactful, patient-centered solutions that address the real challenges they face.
