Complementary & Integrative Medicine
Advancing Integrative Care in Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction
The Complementary & Integrative Medicine (CIM) Section of the Rome Foundation is a global, interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to advancing the science, clinical integration, and education of evidence-based complementary and integrative approaches in Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI).
About the CIM Section
Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI) are complex, multifactorial conditions that involve bidirectional interactions among the gastrointestinal tract, the central nervous system, the microbiome, and psychosocial factors.
While conventional therapies remain foundational, many patients continue to experience persistent symptoms.
The CIM Section aims to address this gap by fostering the integration of scientifically grounded complementary and integrative interventions into DGBI care, with an emphasis on mechanistic understanding, clinical relevance, and global applicability.
Scope of Complementary & Integrative Medicine in DGBI
Complementary and integrative medicine encompasses a broad range of therapeutic approaches and integrative clinical care models, including:
- Meditative Movement and Integrative Behavioral Approaches
- Acupuncture and Related Techniques
- Herbal Medicine and Supplements
These modalities may influence key pathophysiological pathways relevant to DGBI, including the gut–brain axis, autonomic function, immune activation, and the intestinal microbiome.
Our Vision
To achieve the integration of evidence-based complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) into the routine management of patients with Disorders of Gut–Brain Interaction (DGBI), through a scientifically rigorous, mechanism-informed, and patient-centered approach.
This vision emphasizes bridging traditional and modern medical systems, aligning therapeutic strategies with underlying pathophysiology, and enhancing personalized care across diverse global settings.
Our Mission
To advance the field of CIM in DGBI by:
- Driving high-quality research to evaluate efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of CIM therapies
- Promoting education and knowledge dissemination for clinicians, researchers, and trainees
- Facilitating clinical implementation of evidence-based CIM approaches in routine practice
- Fostering global collaboration to integrate perspectives across regions, cultures, and healthcare systems
Benefits of free membership:
Leadership
Section Chairs
Elyse Thakur, PhD (USA)
Co-Chair
Wake Forest University
Atrium Health, USA
Kewin Siah, MDC (Singapore)
Co-Chair
National University Hospital, Singapore
Administrative Liaison:
- Chuah Kee Huat
Senior Advisory Members
- Fang Xiucai – Traditional Chinese Medicine & ROME Foundation Board Liaison
- William Chey – Integrative Medicine & ROME Foundation Board Liaison
- Laurie Keefer – ROME Foundation Senior Board Liaison
- Tang Xudong – Traditional Chinese Medicine Anchor
- Uday Ghoshal – South Asia Representative
- Tony Lembo– American Representative
- Jan Tack – European Representative and Foundation Board Liaison
Standing Committees
- Education Committee-
- Chairs: Justin Wu, Iris Wang
- Research Committee-
- Chairs: Hou Xiaohua and Gerald Holtmann
- Co-chairs: Andrea Shin, Daniel Keszthelyi
- Membership, Partnership & Communications Committee- Chairs: Xiao Yinglian, Meredith Craven
Clinical Interest Groups (CIGs)
- Herbal Medicine CIG
- Chair: Hidekazu Suzuki
- Acupuncture & Related Techniques CIG
- Chair: Linda Zhong
- Meditative Movement & Integrative Behavioral Approaches CIG
- Chair: Jordan Shapiro
