Investigating how vagus nerve stimulation affects stomach function
Effect of VNS on Gastric Motor Functions
This study is looking at how a treatment called left vagus nerve stimulation might help people with gastroparesis, a condition that makes it hard for the stomach to empty, by seeing if it can improve how well their stomach works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10930824 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of left vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on gastric motor functions, particularly focusing on patients with gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach does not empty properly. The study aims to gather data on how VNS can improve gastric emptying and accommodation by comparing gastric function before and after the treatment. Patients undergoing treatment for depression or epilepsy will be monitored to assess changes in their gastric functions in response to VNS. This approach could provide insights into a new treatment avenue for those suffering from this challenging condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of gastroparesis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gastric motor function or those who are not eligible for vagus nerve stimulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment option for patients with gastroparesis, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the effects of VNS on other bodily functions have been documented, the specific impact on gastric functions is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Camilleri, Michael L. — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Camilleri, Michael L.
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.