Developing new tools for stimulating and recording from small nerves

HORNET Center for Autonomic Nerve Recording and Stimulation Systems (CARSS)

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-10908478

This study is working on a new, gentle device to help doctors connect with small nerves in the body, making it easier to treat conditions related to the autonomic nervous system, and it includes a special tool to perform less invasive surgeries.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10908478 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating an innovative open-architecture nerve interface designed specifically for small diameter nerves, which are crucial for autonomic nerve stimulation and recording. The project aims to develop a helical cuff made from soft polymers and thin film electrodes, allowing for a miniaturized and effective interface. A custom endoscopic tool will also be introduced to facilitate minimally invasive surgical procedures for accessing deeper nerve branches. The goal is to enhance the capabilities of bioelectronic medicine by providing better tools for interfacing with the peripheral nervous system.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from autonomic nervous system disorders or related conditions that affect small nerves.

Not a fit: Patients with larger nerve issues or those not affected by autonomic nervous system disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for conditions related to autonomic nerve dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using open-architecture nerve interfaces is relatively novel, similar advancements in bioelectronic medicine have shown promise in improving nerve interfacing techniques.

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: ANS Diseases, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, Autonomic Diseases, Autonomic Nervous System Diseases, Autonomic nervous system disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.