Developing a soft electronic device to treat resistant hypertension
Official title: 3D Printed Soft and Stretchable Tissue-Like Bioadhesive Electronic Device Enabled Neuromodulation for Resistant Hypertension Therapy
Funded at Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-11158580 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a comfortable and flexible device that helps lower blood pressure for people with stubborn high blood pressure that doesn't respond to regular medications, making it easier for them to manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $361,840 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL171633-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11158580 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with resistant hypertension who have not achieved adequate blood pressure control with standard medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with hypertension that responds well to medication may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a soft and stretchable bioadhesive electronic device designed to treat patients with resistant hypertension, a condition where blood pressure remains high despite medication. The device will utilize electrical activation of the carotid sinus baroreflex to help lower blood pressure effectively. Unlike existing devices, this new approach focuses on minimizing discomfort and tissue damage by being flexible and minimally invasive, allowing it to adapt to the body's movements. The goal is to provide a long-term solution for patients who do not respond to traditional hypertension treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from resistant hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques for hypertension, but this specific approach with a soft, stretchable device is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Pennsylvania State University, the
University Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Tao — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Tao
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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.