Exploring the effects of vagal stimulation and therapy on gut-brain interactions in functional dyspepsia

Synergistic gut-brain axis modulation via vagal stimulation and cognitive behavioral therapy in functional dyspepsia

NIH-funded research Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital · NIH-11095974

This study is looking at whether using a device that stimulates the vagus nerve along with talking therapy can help people with functional dyspepsia feel better and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSpaulding Rehabilitation Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlestown, United States)
Project IDNIH-11095974 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how combining vagal nerve stimulation with cognitive behavioral therapy can improve symptoms of functional dyspepsia, a condition causing recurrent stomach discomfort without a clear cause. The study aims to understand the interaction between these two treatment modalities, targeting both the gut and brain to enhance patient outcomes. By employing a randomized approach, the research will assess the effectiveness of this multimodal strategy in alleviating symptoms and improving quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who experience symptoms of functional dyspepsia and have not found relief from standard treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with functional dyspepsia who have already responded well to existing pharmacological treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients with functional dyspepsia who have not responded to traditional therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using combined therapeutic approaches for gut-brain disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel integration.

Where this research is happening

Charlestown, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.