Developing open-source systems for nerve stimulation and recording

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

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10908476

This study is working on new technology to help doctors better stimulate and monitor nerves, which could lead to improved treatments for conditions that affect nerve function.

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-10908476 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating flexible, open-architecture systems for autonomic nerve stimulation and recording, which are essential for advancing bioelectronic medicine. By developing implantable leads that can interface with a new implantable pulse generator, the project aims to overcome existing technical and regulatory barriers faced by clinical researchers. The approach includes creating specialized cuffs for nerve stimulation and leads for various types of sensing, enabling more effective closed-loop neuromodulation. This innovative technology could facilitate better clinical studies and treatments for conditions related to nerve dysfunction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from conditions like bowel incontinence, anal incontinence, or other autonomic nerve-related disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with non-autonomic nerve-related conditions or those who do not require neuromodulation therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients with autonomic nerve disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing closed-loop neuromodulation systems, but this open-source approach is relatively novel.

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.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.