Using nerve stimulation to activate brain reward circuits
Official title: Peripheral nerve stimulation for activation of dopaminergic nuclei
Funded at University of Texas Dallas · NIH-10989917 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gently stimulating a specific nerve in your neck might help improve brain functions related to feeling rewarded and managing hunger, which could lead to new ways to treat movement disorders and other issues with appetite and metabolism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $300,718 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126816-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989917 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include individuals with movement disorders or those experiencing appetite regulation issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to the vagus nerve or those not experiencing movement or appetite disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how stimulating the right vagus nerve can influence brain circuits associated with reward and appetite. By focusing on the differences between the left and right vagus nerves, the study aims to explore new treatment strategies for movement disorders and potentially other conditions related to appetite and metabolism. Patients may receive electrical stimulation to the right cervical vagus nerve, which could lead to improved understanding and treatment of various neurological and metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new therapeutic options for patients with movement disorders and appetite-related issues.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using vagus nerve stimulation for various conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Dallas
Richardson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thorn, Catherine a — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Thorn, Catherine a
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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.