Developing an open-source system for nerve stimulation to treat chronic constipation.

OpenNerve Platform for Chronic Constipation.

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11080155

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11080155 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic constipation who may benefit from neuromodulation therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with constipation caused by non-neurological factors or those who do not respond to nerve stimulation therapies may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.