Exploring how non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation affects stress responses in depression differently for men and women
Sex-Dependent Impact of Transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Stimulation on the Stress Response Circuitry and Autonomic Dysregulation in Major Depression
This study is looking at how a gentle, non-invasive treatment called transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) can help people with major depressive disorder manage stress and improve their mood, while also exploring how this might work differently for men and women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10766727 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) on the stress response and autonomic regulation in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD). By focusing on the differences between sexes, the study aims to understand how these variations influence mood and stress responses. The approach involves non-invasive stimulation techniques to modulate brain circuitry associated with mood and anxiety, potentially leading to improved treatment options for depression. Participants will be monitored for changes in their physiological responses and mood as a result of this stimulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing major depressive disorder, particularly those interested in non-invasive treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients with non-depressive mood disorders or those who do not respond to vagus nerve stimulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for major depression that take into account sex differences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with vagus nerve stimulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Napadow, Vitaly — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Napadow, Vitaly
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 below.