Understanding how the vagus nerve senses and communicates body signals to the brain
Official title: Molecular and organizational mechanisms that build the vagal sensory code for interoception
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11070697 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the vagus nerve helps our body understand signals from different organs, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like depression and epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $33,958 |
| NIH project number | 1F30AT013179-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070697 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing disorders associated with interoceptive dysfunction, such as depression, epilepsy, or other related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to vagal dysfunction or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the vagus nerve, a critical component of the body's communication system, senses and interprets signals from various organs. By exploring the organization of sensory neurons in the vagus nerve, the study aims to uncover how these neurons encode information about bodily functions and responses to environmental changes. This knowledge could lead to improved treatments for conditions linked to interoceptive dysfunction, such as depression and epilepsy. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the vagal sensory system and its role in maintaining health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for patients with conditions related to vagal dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the vagus nerve's role in various conditions, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hafez, Omar — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Hafez, Omar
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.