Using non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation to reduce inflammation after brain hemorrhages

Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation to mitigate subarachnoid hemorrhage induced inflammation

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10870057

This study is looking at a gentle way to stimulate the vagus nerve to help reduce inflammation in people who have had a brain bleed from a ruptured aneurysm, and it aims to see if this method can improve their recovery without using medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10870057 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to help manage inflammation in patients who have experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) due to a ruptured aneurysm. The study aims to assess how this technique can influence inflammatory markers in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of affected patients. By employing a novel approach that does not rely on medications, the research seeks to provide a safe and effective method to improve patient outcomes following SAH. Participants will undergo vagus nerve stimulation to evaluate its potential benefits in reducing complications associated with inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a subarachnoid hemorrhage or those with contraindications to vagus nerve stimulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved recovery and reduced disability for patients who suffer from subarachnoid hemorrhages.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for vagus nerve stimulation in treating various inflammatory conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.