Using vagal nerve stimulation to help treat obesity
Developing a novel stimulus paradigm and interface of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) to treat obesity
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION · NIH-11055290
This study is exploring how to make a treatment called vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) better for helping people with obesity by looking at how different stimulation settings affect hunger and eating habits, using rats to test the idea.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11055290 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) can be optimized to treat obesity by mapping the relationship between stimulation parameters and their effects on nerve activity, brain regions related to hunger, and food consumption. The study involves implanting electrodes in the vagus nerve of rats to deliver targeted stimulation while monitoring brain activity through imaging techniques. By understanding how different stimulation patterns affect outcomes, the goal is to develop a more effective method for using VNS in obesity treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals struggling with obesity, particularly those with related health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have related health conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for obesity, potentially reducing weight and associated health risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using vagal nerve stimulation for various conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION — GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHIEFER, MATTHEW ANTHONY — VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION
- Study coordinator: SCHIEFER, MATTHEW ANTHONY
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.