Investigating how vagus nerve stimulation affects various body systems
Clinical Core
This study is looking at how different ways of using vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can help improve heart, immune, and metabolism functions in people who have just received a VNS device, so we can see which methods work best for your health.
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-10930819 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how different settings of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) can influence the autonomic nervous system and its control over cardiovascular, immune, and metabolic functions. By using a Common Study Protocol, the project will assess the effects of VNS on newly implanted patients, measuring parameters such as heart rate variability and blood pressure responses. The study includes both standard and novel VNS devices to compare their effectiveness in modulating these physiological systems. Patients will undergo in vivo electrical stimulation and various assessments to gather comprehensive data on the impact of VNS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients who have recently received a vagus nerve stimulation device for epilepsy or depression.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a vagus nerve stimulation device or those with other unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for conditions like epilepsy and depression through optimized vagus nerve stimulation techniques.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with vagus nerve stimulation in various conditions, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nahas, Ziad — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Nahas, Ziad
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.