A device that stimulates the vagus nerve to help control weight.
Official title: Implantable Self-Powered Biofeedback Vagus Nerve Stimulator for Weight Control
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10933536 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, flexible device that gently stimulates the vagus nerve to help people manage their weight by responding to stomach movements when they eat, and it's designed to be battery-free and easier on the body than other weight control methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $424,783 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EB034241-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933536 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 21 who struggle with weight management and are seeking innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have issues with weight control may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel implantable device that uses biofeedback to stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a key role in regulating food intake. The device is designed to be battery-free and flexible, generating electrical stimulation in response to stomach movements when food is consumed. By targeting the vagus nerve, the goal is to help individuals manage their weight more effectively and with fewer side effects compared to traditional methods. The research builds on previous successful animal studies, aiming to enhance the efficacy of weight control through neuromodulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective method for weight management that minimizes the need for continuous external power sources.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using vagus nerve stimulation in animal models have shown promising results in weight control, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Xudong — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Wang, Xudong
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.