Exploring how vagal nerve stimulation can prevent dangerous heart rhythms after a heart attack

Antiarrhythmic mechanisms of chronic vagal nerve stimulation in sympathetic neurons

['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-10904666

This study is looking at how a treatment called vagal nerve stimulation might help people who have had a heart attack by improving heart function and preventing dangerous heart rhythms.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10904666 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of chronic vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) on heart function, particularly focusing on how it can help prevent life-threatening heart rhythms like ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation after a heart attack. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind VNS and its ability to restore balance in the nervous system that controls heart activity. By using advanced techniques and a multidisciplinary approach, researchers will explore how VNS impacts sympathetic neurons and reduces the risk of arrhythmias. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients who have suffered from myocardial infarction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a myocardial infarction and are at risk for ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a heart attack or have other unrelated cardiac conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients at risk of dangerous heart rhythms following a heart attack.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with vagal nerve stimulation in animal models and some human trials, indicating potential for success in this approach.

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 →

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.