Exploring how vagus nerve stimulation can reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel diseases.

Vagal control of tissue SUMOylation as a novel anti-inflammatory target in IBD

['FUNDING_R21'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10662186

This study is looking at how the vagus nerve can help reduce inflammation in people with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis by boosting a process that keeps inflammatory cells in check, and it aims to find new ways to help manage these conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10662186 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the vagus nerve in regulating inflammation in conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. By enhancing a process called SUMOylation in the intestinal lining, the study aims to reduce the recruitment of inflammatory cells that contribute to these diseases. The researchers will use animal models to explore how stimulating the vagus nerve can promote SUMOylation and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing inflammatory bowel diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis who are experiencing significant inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients with inflammatory bowel diseases who are not responsive to vagus nerve stimulation or have other complicating health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly reduce inflammation and improve the quality of life for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using vagus nerve stimulation to control inflammation, suggesting that this approach could be effective in treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, 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.