Investigating how different acupuncture points affect the gut-brain connection in functional dyspepsia.
Official title: Body Region Specificity for Neuromodulation of the Gut-Brain Axis in Functional Dyspepsia
Funded at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital · NIH-10881998 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how acupuncture might help people with functional dyspepsia by seeing how it affects the brain and stomach, using special imaging techniques to track any changes during treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlestown, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $135,434 |
| NIH project number | 5K01AT012208-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10881998 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with functional dyspepsia who are seeking alternative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with gastrointestinal conditions unrelated to functional dyspepsia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of neuromodulation through acupuncture on the gut-brain axis, specifically focusing on patients with functional dyspepsia. Using advanced MRI techniques, the study aims to assess how stimulating various acupuncture points influences brain activity and gastric function. The approach involves comparing the effects of different acupoint locations on neurocircuitry and gastric motility, providing insights into non-pharmacological treatment options for digestive issues. Patients may undergo non-invasive imaging to monitor changes in their condition throughout the treatment process.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective non-drug therapies for managing functional dyspepsia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using acupuncture for gastrointestinal issues, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Charlestown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sclocco, Roberta — Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
- Study coordinator: Sclocco, Roberta
Related research
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Exploring the effects of vagal stimulation and therapy on gut-brain interactions in functional dyspepsia
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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.