Developing an open-source system for nerve stimulation to treat chronic constipation.
Official title: OpenNerve Platform for Chronic Constipation.
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-11080155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, flexible device that helps stimulate nerves to treat chronic constipation, aiming to provide patients with a more effective and affordable treatment option.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 23, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $306,631 |
| NIH project number | 3U41NS129514-02S3 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080155 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic constipation who may benefit from neuromodulation therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with constipation caused by non-neurological factors or those who do not respond to nerve stimulation therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating an open-architecture and open-source implantable system designed for autonomic nerve stimulation, specifically targeting chronic constipation. By validating this system in large animals, the project aims to overcome existing barriers in bioelectronic medicine, such as high costs and limited adaptability of current technologies. Patients may benefit from a more effective and accessible treatment option for chronic constipation through this innovative approach. The research will involve testing the system's functionality and effectiveness in stimulating the sacral nerve.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide patients with a novel and effective treatment option for chronic constipation.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using open-source systems for nerve stimulation is relatively novel, similar bioelectronic therapies have shown promise in other areas of treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meng, Ellis — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Meng, Ellis
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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.