Noninvasive stimulation of the vagus nerve to improve hand function after stroke
Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Motor Learning & Mechanisms
This study is looking at a gentle way to help stroke survivors improve their hand movement and skills by using a small electrical device on the ear, making it easier and less invasive than other methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11067746 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of noninvasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) to enhance motor learning and recovery of hand function in stroke survivors. By applying electrical stimulation to specific sites on the external ear, the study aims to identify optimal conditions for improving motor skills through task repetition. The approach is designed to be less invasive and more affordable than traditional vagus nerve stimulation methods, which require surgical implantation. The research will also explore how the timing and intensity of stimulation affect learning outcomes, using pupil dilation as a measure of physiological response.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a stroke and are seeking to improve their hand function and daily living activities.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or do not have impairments affecting hand function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques that enhance hand function and independence for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using vagus nerve stimulation for rehabilitation, but the specific application of taVNS is still being explored and is considered novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Urbin, Michael a. — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Urbin, Michael a.
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.