Using neuromodulation to improve heart function in older adults with heart failure.
Official title: Neuromodulation of inflammation and endothelial function to treat elderly patients with systolic heart failure.
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10576358 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a gentle, non-invasive treatment called low-level transcutaneous tragus stimulation can help older adults with heart failure feel better and improve their ability to exercise over three months.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $217,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG075639-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10576358 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are elderly individuals diagnosed with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction who experience limitations in their daily activities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with heart failure who do not have reduced ejection fraction or those who are not elderly may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of low-level transcutaneous tragus stimulation (LLTS) to enhance exercise capacity and quality of life in elderly patients suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The study focuses on addressing common issues associated with aging and heart failure, such as inflammation and autonomic imbalance. Patients will receive LLTS for one hour daily over three months, and the effects on their physical abilities and overall well-being will be closely monitored. The goal is to determine if this non-invasive treatment can lead to significant improvements in daily living functions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, non-invasive treatment option that significantly improves the quality of life and physical capabilities of elderly patients with heart failure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that LLTS can improve autonomic function and inflammation in patients with related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dasari, Tarun — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Dasari, Tarun
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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.