Afferent Pathways Behind Vagus Nerve Therapy
Official title: Afferent Mechanisms of Vagal Neuromodulation Therapy
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11331273 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This grant studies how activating the vagus nerve affects brain circuits to improve outcomes in central nervous system conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2018 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $689,699 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL141560-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11331273 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals with CNS disorders who may be considered for VNS therapy or related neuromodulation approaches in future trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients not considering neuromodulation or those with contraindications to VNS may not benefit.
What this research studies
Researchers at East Tennessee State University will examine how activating vagal afferent pathways influences brain centers involved in CNS disorders. The project focuses on understanding how different nerve signals from the vagus nerve reach the nucleus of the solitary tract and other brain regions to produce therapeutic effects. Using animal models and cellular assays, the work aims to identify mechanisms that could optimize VNS therapy for patients with CNS diseases. The findings could guide safer, more effective stimulation protocols that align with known brain pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could inform improved VNS treatment protocols for CNS conditions, potentially enhancing efficacy and reducing side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work shows that precise activation of vagal afferents influences brain circuits, but optimal protocols remain uncertain, making this a promising but exploratory effort.
Where this research is happening
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beaumont, Eric — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Beaumont, Eric
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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.