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Mbikyo MB, Wang A, Ma Q, Miao L, Cui N, Yang Y, Fu H, Sun Y, Li Z. Low-Level Tragus Stimulation Attenuates Blood Pressure in Young Individuals With Hypertension: Results From a Small-Scale Single-Blind Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032269. [PMID: 39291497 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular and chronic kidney diseases. Its management in young people remains limited. Device-based therapies, such as low-level tragus stimulation (LL-TS), a noninvasive method that reduces sympathetic activity, have recently been explored for resistant hypertension. METHODS AND RESULTS This trial involved patients with Grade 1 hypertension with no other medical history. LL-TS (20 Hz, 1 mA, 1 h/day) was applied for 3 months on the tragus (Intervention group [IG]) or earlobe (Control group [CG]). Blood pressure and outcomes were assessed at the first, second, and third months. Among 40 patients, 21 were in IG and 19 in CG. Baseline systolic blood pressure was similar between IG (142.62±8.18 mm Hg) and CG (143.00±8.61 mm Hg), P=0.89. Post-LL-TS, systolic blood pressure showed significant reductions in IG compared with CG at the first (IG: 134.47±5.95 mm Hg, CG: 141.28±6.78 mm Hg, P=0.002), second (IG: 132.50±7.51 mm Hg, CG: 140.62±7.15 mm Hg, P=0.001), and third months (IG: 128.81±7.13 mm Hg, CG: 136.51±7.96 mm Hg, P=0.003). diastolic blood pressure also differed significantly: first month (IG: 85.34±5.81 mm Hg, CG: 89.74±6.32 mm Hg, P=0.03), second month (IG: 82.12±5.22 mm Hg, CG: 88.57±7.11 mm Hg, P=0.002), and third month (IG: 80.71±5.96 mm Hg, CG: 87.55±5.26 mm Hg, P=0.001). Heart rate was unchanged (P>0.05). Only 0.01% of IG subjects reported site irritation, with no serious adverse events. CONCLUSIONS LL-TS led to significant blood pressure reductions in young patients with essential hypertension. Further larger trials are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of LL-TS. REGISTRATION URL: https://www.chictr.org.cn/; Unique identifier: ChiCTR2000038448.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muisha B Mbikyo
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Ai Wang
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
- Department of Cardiology Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai China
| | - Qun Ma
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Linlin Miao
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Nan Cui
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Yiqing Yang
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Haoran Fu
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Yingxian Sun
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
| | - Zhao Li
- Department of Cardiology The First Hospital of China Medical University Shenyang China
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Herring N, Ajijola OA, Foreman RD, Gourine AV, Green AL, Osborn J, Paterson DJ, Paton JFR, Ripplinger CM, Smith C, Vrabec TL, Wang HJ, Zucker IH, Ardell JL. Neurocardiology: translational advancements and potential. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39340173 DOI: 10.1113/jp284740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
In our original white paper published in the The Journal of Physiology in 2016, we set out our knowledge of the structural and functional organization of cardiac autonomic control, how it remodels during disease, and approaches to exploit such knowledge for autonomic regulation therapy. The aim of this update is to build on this original blueprint, highlighting the significant progress which has been made in the field since and major challenges and opportunities that exist with regard to translation. Imbalances in autonomic responses, while beneficial in the short term, ultimately contribute to the evolution of cardiac pathology. As our understanding emerges of where and how to target in terms of actuators (including the heart and intracardiac nervous system (ICNS), stellate ganglia, dorsal root ganglia (DRG), vagus nerve, brainstem, and even higher centres), there is also a need to develop sensor technology to respond to appropriate biomarkers (electrophysiological, mechanical, and molecular) such that closed-loop autonomic regulation therapies can evolve. The goal is to work with endogenous control systems, rather than in opposition to them, to improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Herring
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - O A Ajijola
- UCLA Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - R D Foreman
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - A V Gourine
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - A L Green
- Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J Osborn
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - D J Paterson
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - J F R Paton
- Manaaki Manawa - The Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - C M Ripplinger
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - C Smith
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - T L Vrabec
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - H J Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - I H Zucker
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - J L Ardell
- UCLA Neurocardiology Research Center of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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3
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Nagai M, Yoshitomi Y, Kato M, Oda N, Dote K, Po SS, Dasari TW. Vagal Neuromodulation on Ventricular Mechanics in Takotsubo Syndrome: A First-in-Human Proof-of-Concept Study. Am J Ther 2024; 31:e611-e614. [PMID: 39121185 DOI: 10.1097/mjt.0000000000001750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
- Cardiovascular Section, Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Yuki Yoshitomi
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masaya Kato
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Noboru Oda
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Keigo Dote
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Sunny S Po
- Cardiovascular Section, Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
| | - Tarun W Dasari
- Cardiovascular Section, Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK
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4
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Farhat K, Po SS, Stavrakis S. Non-invasive Neuromodulation of Arrhythmias. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2024; 16:307-314. [PMID: 39084723 PMCID: PMC11292161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system plays a central role in the pathogenesis of arrhythmias. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the therapeutic effect of neuromodulation at multiple anatomic targets across the neurocardiac axis for the treatment of arrhythmias. In this review, we discuss the rationale and clinical application of noninvasive neuromodulation techniques in treating arrhythmias and explore associated barriers and future directions, including optimization of stimulation parameters and patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sunny S Po
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
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5
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Zuhair M, Keene D, Kanagaratnam P, Lim PB. Percutaneous Neuromodulation for Atrial Fibrillation. Card Electrophysiol Clin 2024; 16:281-296. [PMID: 39084721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccep.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Percutaneous neuromodulation is emerging as a promising therapeutic approach for atrial fibrillation (AF). This article explores techniques such as ganglionated plexi (GP) ablation, and vagus nerve stimulation, pinpointing their potential in modulating AF triggers and maintenance. Noninvasive methods, such as transcutaneous low-level tragus stimulation, offer innovative treatment pathways, with early trials indicating a significant reduction in AF burden. GP ablation may address autonomic triggers, and the potential for GP ablation in neuromodulation is discussed. The article stresses the necessity for more rigorous clinical trials to validate the safety, reproducibility, and efficacy of these neuromodulation techniques in AF treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Zuhair
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12, UK.
| | - Daniel Keene
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12, UK
| | - Prapa Kanagaratnam
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12, UK
| | - Phang Boon Lim
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Du Cane Road, London W12, UK
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Oldrati V, Gasparroni V, Michelutti A, Ciricugno A, Borgatti R, Orcesi S, Fazzi E, Morandi A, Galli J, Piccinini L, Maghini C, Arioli M, Cattaneo Z, Urgesi C, Finisguerra A. Pairing transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation with an intensive bimanual training in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: study protocol of a randomized sham-controlled trial. Front Neurol 2024; 15:1441128. [PMID: 39220734 PMCID: PMC11361968 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2024.1441128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gross motor function impairments and manual dexterity deficits are frequently observed in children and adolescents with Cerebral Palsy (CP), having a major impact on their activity level and autonomy. Improving manual dexterity and activity level of patients with CP is often the focus of rehabilitation. Novel and adjuvant treatment methods that could support the standard training also in chronic conditions are a research priority. The transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, which provides a bottom-up stimulation of subcortical and cortical brain structures, enhancing brain GABA and Noradrenaline levels. This technique may play a pivotal role in brain plasticity, which has not been tested in CP patients before. Methods 44 children and adolescents with CP will be involved, treated in pairs in a randomized, double-blind, pre-post test study. The two groups will undergo the Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy Including Lower Extremities (HABIT-ILE) for 2 consecutive weeks, with 3 h daily sessions for 5 days per week, for an overall time interval of 30 h; the training will be combined with the application for 75 min/day of active or sham tVNS, in separate, randomly allocated groups. The primary outcome measure will include the scores at the Assisting Hand Assessment and Box and Block Test, and at an ad-hoc visuomotor task evaluating manual visuomotor control. Secondary outcomes will include the scores at the Children's Hand Experience Questionnaire, Canadian Occupational Performance Measure, Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function, Gross Motor Function Measure, Vineland, Pediatric quality of life inventory. The evaluation points will include pre (T0), post (T1) and 3-month follow up (T2) assessments. Safety and tolerability will also be assessed. Results The results of this trial will assess whether tVNS can effectively boost the effects of an intensive two-week bimanual training, in improving manual dexterity in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy, ensuring safety and tolerability throughout the intervention period.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06372028.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Oldrati
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Ciricugno
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Renato Borgatti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Simona Orcesi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Elisa Fazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Morandi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jessica Galli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luigi Piccinini
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Cristina Maghini
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
| | - Maria Arioli
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Zaira Cattaneo
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Cosimo Urgesi
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Bosisio Parini (LC), Italy
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Languages and Literatures, Communication, Education and Society, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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7
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Petersen JCG, Becker R, Petersen LG. Transcutaneous vagal nerve stimulation during lower body negative pressure. Auton Neurosci 2024; 254:103192. [PMID: 38896931 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2024.103192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Para-sympathetic vagal activation has profound influence on heart rate and other cardiovascular parameters. We tested the hypothesis that transcutaneous Vagal Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) through the auricular branch of the vagus nerve would attenuate the normal sympathetic response to central blood volume reduction by lower body negative pressure (LBNP). METHOD 10 healthy volunteers (6 female; age 21 ± 2 years; weight 62 ± 13 kg; height 167 ± 12 cm) were included in this cross-over design trial. After 15 min rest in supine position, subjects underwent three 15-min periods of 30 mmHg LBNP intervention with and without cyclic tVNS stimulation. Continuous cardiovascular parameters (Nexfin) were recorded. RESULTS Overall tVNS did not convincingly attenuate sympathetic response to central hypovolemia. Deactivation of the tVNS during LBNP resulted in increased MAP at 2.3 ± 0.5 mmHg (P < 0.001). Comparing the cyclic actual active stimulation periods to periods with pause during tVNS intervention showed a decrease in HR by 72.9 ± 11.2 to 70.2 ± 11.6 bpm (mean ± SD; P < 0.05), and concomitant increases in SV (86.0 ± 12.1 to 87.2 ± 12.6 mL; P < 0.05), MAP (82.9 ± 6.3 to 84.0 ± 6.2 mmHg; P < 0.05) and TPR (1116.0 ± 111.1 to 1153 ± 104.8 dyn*s/cm5; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION tVNS in 30 s cycles during LBNP can selectively attenuate HR, prompting a compensatory augmented sympathetic response. It would appear the method used in this study at least, has an isolated cardiac inhibitory effect probably mediated by augmented vagal activity on the sinoatrial or atrio-ventricular node, possibly in combination with reduced activity in the sympathetic cardiac nerve.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lonnie G Petersen
- Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA; University of Copenhagen, Denmark
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8
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Owens MM, Jacquemet V, Napadow V, Lewis N, Beaumont E. Brainstem neuronal responses to transcutaneous auricular and cervical vagus nerve stimulation in rats. J Physiol 2024; 602:4027-4052. [PMID: 39031516 PMCID: PMC11326965 DOI: 10.1113/jp286680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) targets subcutaneous axons in the auricular branch of the vagus nerve at the outer ear. Its non-invasive nature makes it a potential treatment for various disorders. taVNS induces neuromodulatory effects within the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), and due to its widespread connectivity, the NTS acts as a gateway to elicit neuromodulation in both higher-order brain regions and other brainstem nuclei (e.g. spinal trigeminal nucleus; Sp5). Our objective was to examine stimulation parameters on single-neuron electrophysiological responses in α-chloralose-anaesthetized Sprague-Dawley rats within NTS and Sp5. taVNS was also compared to traditional cervical VNS (cVNS) on single neuronal activation. Specifically, electrophysiological extracellular recordings were evaluated for a range of frequency and intensity parameters (20-250 Hz, 0.5-1.0 mA). Neurons were classified as positive, negative or non-responders based on increased activity, decreased activity or no response during stimulation, respectively. Frequency-dependent analysis showed that 20 and 100 Hz generated the highest proportion of positive responders in NTS and Sp5 with 1.0 mA intensities eliciting the greatest magnitude of response. Comparisons between taVNS and cVNS revealed similar parameter-specific activation for caudal NTS neuronal populations; however, individual neurons showed different activation profiles. The latter suggests that cVNS and taVNS send afferent input to NTS via different neuronal pathways. This study demonstrates differential parameter-specific taVNS responses and begins an investigation of the mechanisms responsible for taVNS modulation. Understanding the neuronal pathways responsible for eliciting neuromodulatory effects will enable more tailored taVNS treatments in various clinical disorders. KEY POINTS: Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) offers a non-invasive alternative to invasive cervical vagus nerve stimulation (cVNS) by activating vagal afferents in the ear to induce neuromodulation. Our study evaluated taVNS effects on neuronal firing patterns in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and spinal trigeminal nucleus (Sp5) and found that 20 and 100 Hz notably increased neuronal activity during stimulation in both nuclei. Increasing taVNS intensity not only increased the number of neurons responding in Sp5 but also increased the magnitude of response, suggesting a heightened sensitivity to taVNS compared to NTS. Comparisons between cVNS and taVNS revealed similar overall activation but different responses on individual neurons, indicating distinct neural pathways. These results show parameter-specific and nuclei-specific responses to taVNS and confirm that taVNS can elicit responses comparable to cVNS at the neuronal level, but it does so through different neuronal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misty M Owens
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Vincent Jacquemet
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Research Center, Sacred Heart Hospital of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vitaly Napadow
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicole Lewis
- Department of Medical Education, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
| | - Eric Beaumont
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA
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9
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Zafeiropoulos S, Ahmed U, Bikou A, Mughrabi IT, Stavrakis S, Zanos S. Vagus nerve stimulation for cardiovascular diseases: Is there light at the end of the tunnel? Trends Cardiovasc Med 2024; 34:327-337. [PMID: 37506989 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2023.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic dysfunction and chronic inflammation contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of several cardiovascular diseases (CVD), such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, atherosclerotic CVD, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and atrial fibrillation. The vagus nerve provides parasympathetic innervation to the heart, vessels, and lungs, and is also implicated in the neural control of inflammation through a neuroimmune pathway involving the spleen. Stimulation of the vagus nerve (VNS) can in principle restore autonomic balance and suppress inflammation, with potential therapeutic benefits in these diseases. Although VNS ameliorated CVD in several animal models, early human studies have demonstrated variable efficacy. The purpose of this review is to discuss the rationale behind the use of VNS in the treatment of CVD, to critically review animal and human studies of VNS in CVD, and to propose possible means to overcome the challenges in the clinical translation of VNS in CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanos Zafeiropoulos
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Umair Ahmed
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Alexia Bikou
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Ibrahim T Mughrabi
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm Institute, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Stavros Zanos
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine at Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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Zhang Q, Zhang L, Lin G, Luo F. The protective role of vagus nerve stimulation in ischemia-reperfusion injury. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30952. [PMID: 38770302 PMCID: PMC11103530 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) encompasses the damage resulting from the restoration of blood supply following tissue ischemia. This phenomenon commonly occurs in clinical scenarios such as hemorrhagic shock, severe trauma, organ transplantation, and thrombolytic therapy. Despite its prevalence, existing treatments exhibit limited efficacy against IRI. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a widely utilized technique for modulating the autonomic nervous system. Numerous studies have demonstrated that VNS significantly reduces IRI in various organs, including the heart, brain, and liver. This article reviews the pathological processes during IRI and summarizes the role and possible mechanisms of VNS in IRI of different organs. Furthermore, this review addresses the current challenges of VNS clinical applications, providing a novel perspective on IRI treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Guoqiang Lin
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Fanyan Luo
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
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11
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Oh S. Neuromodulation for Atrial Fibrillation Control. Korean Circ J 2024; 54:223-232. [PMID: 38654454 PMCID: PMC11109834 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2024.0050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Trigger and functional substrate are related to the tone of autonomic nervous system, and the role of the autonomic nerve is more significant in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) compared to non-paroxysmal AF. We have several options for neuromodulation to help to manage patients with AF. Neuromodulation targets can be divided into efferent and afferent pathways. On the efferent side, block would be an intuitive approach. However, permanent block is hard to achieve due to completeness of the procedure and reinnervation issues. Temporary block such as botulinum toxin injection into ganglionated plexi would be a possible option for post-cardiac surgery AF. Low-level subthreshold stimulation could also prevent AF, but the invasiveness of the procedure is the barrier for the general use. On the afferent side, block is also an option. Various renal denervation approaches are currently under investigation. Auditory vagus nerve stimulation is one of the representative low-level afferent stimulation methods. This technique is noninvasive and easy to apply, so it has the potential to be widely utilized if its efficacy is confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seil Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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12
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Narayan SM, Wan EY, Andrade JG, Avari Silva JN, Bhatia NK, Deneke T, Deshmukh AJ, Chon KH, Erickson L, Ghanbari H, Noseworthy PA, Pathak RK, Roelle L, Seiler A, Singh JP, Srivatsa UN, Trela A, Tsiperfal A, Varma N, Yousuf OK. Visions for digital integrated cardiovascular care: HRS Digital Health Committee perspectives. CARDIOVASCULAR DIGITAL HEALTH JOURNAL 2024; 5:37-49. [PMID: 38765620 PMCID: PMC11096652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvdhj.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine Y Wan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ki H Chon
- University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut
| | | | | | | | | | - Lisa Roelle
- Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | | | - Jagmeet P Singh
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Anthony Trela
- Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, Palo Alto, California
| | - Angela Tsiperfal
- Stanford Arrhythmia Service, Stanford Healthcare, Palo Alto, California
| | | | - Omair K Yousuf
- Inova Heart and Vascular Institute; Carient Heart and Vascular; and University of Virginia Health, Fairfax, Virginia
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Bussa R, Nudy M, Ahmed M, Bussa J, Wheaten S, Zimmerman E, Gonzalez MD, Naccarelli GV, Maheshwari A. Pulmonary vein isolation plus adjunctive therapy for the treatment of atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2024; 67:523-537. [PMID: 37540340 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-023-01609-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is the primary technique for ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). It is unclear whether adjunctive therapies in addition to PVI can reduce atrial arrhythmia recurrence (AAR) compared to PVI alone in patients with AF. METHODS A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing PVI plus an adjunctive therapy (autonomic modulation, linear ablation, non-pulmonary vein trigger ablation, epicardial PVI [hybrid ablation], or left atrial substrate modification) to PVI alone was conducted. The primary outcome was AAR. Cumulative odd's ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for each treatment type. RESULTS Forty-six trials were identified that included 8,500 participants. The mean age (± standard deviation) was 60.2 (±4.1) years, and 27.2% of all patients were female. The mean follow-up time was 14.6 months. PVI plus autonomic modulation and PVI plus hybrid ablation were associated with a relative 53.1% (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.32 to 0.69; p < 0.001) and 59.1% (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.23 to 0.75; p = 0.003) reduction in AAR, respectively, compared to PVI alone. All categories had at least moderate interstudy heterogeneity except for hybrid ablation. CONCLUSION Adjunctive autonomic modulation and epicardial PVI may improve the effectiveness of PVI. Larger, multi-center randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy of these therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Bussa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA.
| | - Matthew Nudy
- Division of Cardiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Heart and Vascular Institute, Hershey, PA, USA
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Mohammad Ahmed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Jatin Bussa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Sterling Wheaten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Eric Zimmerman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA, 17033, USA
| | - Mario D Gonzalez
- Division of Cardiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Heart and Vascular Institute, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Gerald V Naccarelli
- Division of Cardiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Heart and Vascular Institute, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Ankit Maheshwari
- Division of Cardiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Center, Heart and Vascular Institute, Hershey, PA, USA
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14
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Rajendran PS, Hadaya J, Khalsa SS, Yu C, Chang R, Shivkumar K. The vagus nerve in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology: From evolutionary insights to clinical medicine. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 156:190-200. [PMID: 36641366 PMCID: PMC10336178 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The parasympathetic nervous system via the vagus nerve exerts profound influence over the heart. Together with the sympathetic nervous system, the parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for fine-tuned regulation of all aspects of cardiovascular function, including heart rate, rhythm, contractility, and blood pressure. In this review, we highlight vagal efferent and afferent innervation of the heart, with a focus on insights from comparative biology and advances in understanding the molecular and genetic diversity of vagal neurons, as well as interoception, parasympathetic dysfunction in heart disease, and the therapeutic potential of targeting the parasympathetic nervous system in cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joseph Hadaya
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Program, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sahib S Khalsa
- Laureate Institute for Brain Research, Tulsa, Ok, USA; Oxley College of Health Sciences, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, Ok, USA
| | - Chuyue Yu
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rui Chang
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kalyanam Shivkumar
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Cardiac Arrhythmia Center and Neurocardiology Research Program of Excellence, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; UCLA Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Program, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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15
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Zhang Z, Xiao Y, Dai Y, Lin Q, Liu Q. Device therapy for patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Heart Fail Rev 2024; 29:417-430. [PMID: 37940727 PMCID: PMC10943171 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-023-10366-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Device therapy is a nonpharmacological approach that presents a crucial advancement for managing patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This review investigated the impact of device-based interventions and emphasized their potential for optimizing treatment for this complex patient demographic. Cardiac resynchronization therapy, augmented by atrioventricular node ablation with His-bundle pacing or left bundle-branch pacing, is effective for enhancing cardiac function and establishing atrioventricular synchrony. Cardiac contractility modulation and vagus nerve stimulation represent novel strategies for increasing myocardial contractility and adjusting the autonomic balance. Left ventricular expanders have demonstrated short-term benefits in HFpEF patients but require more investigation for long-term effectiveness and safety, especially in patients with AF. Research gaps regarding complications arising from left ventricular expander implantation need to be addressed. Device-based therapies for heart valve diseases, such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement and transcatheter edge-to-edge repair, show promise for patients with AF and HFpEF, particularly those with mitral or tricuspid regurgitation. Clinical evaluations show that these device therapies lessen AF occurrence, improve exercise tolerance, and boost left ventricular diastolic function. However, additional studies are required to perfect patient selection criteria and ascertain the long-term effectiveness and safety of these interventions. Our review underscores the significant potential of device therapy for improving the outcomes and quality of life for patients with AF and HFpEF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixi Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yichao Xiao
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yongguo Dai
- Department of Pharmacology, Wuhan University TaiKang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan, 430071, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuzhen Lin
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, Hunan Province, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Budhiraja A, Mehta A, Alhamo MA, Swedarsky R, Dahle S, Isseroff RR. Vagus nerve stimulation: Potential for treating chronic wounds. Wound Repair Regen 2024; 32:108-117. [PMID: 38235529 DOI: 10.1111/wrr.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been approved as a treatment for various conditions, including drug-resistant epilepsy, migraines, chronic cluster headaches and treatment-resistant depression. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and anti-adrenergic effects, and its therapeutic potential for diverse pathologies is being investigated. VNS can be achieved through invasive (iVNS) or non-invasive (niVNS) means, targeting different branches of the vagus nerve. iVNS devices require surgical implantation and have associated risks, while niVNS devices are generally better tolerated and have a better safety profile. Studies have shown that both iVNS and niVNS can reduce inflammation and pain perception in patients with acute and chronic conditions. VNS devices, such as the VNS Therapy System and MicroTransponder Vivistim, have received Food and Drug Administration approval for specific indications. Other niVNS devices, like NEMOS and gammaCore, have shown effectiveness in managing epilepsy, pain and migraines. VNS has also demonstrated potential in autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease, as well as neurological disorders like epilepsy and migraines. In addition, VNS has been explored in cardiovascular disorders, including post-operative atrial fibrillation and myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, and has shown positive outcomes. The mechanisms behind VNS's effects include the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, modulation of cytokines and activation of specialised pro-resolving mediators. The modulation of inflammation by VNS presents a promising avenue for investigating its potential to improve the healing of chronic wounds. However, more research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms and optimise the use of VNS in wound healing. Ongoing clinical trials may support the use of this modality as an adjunct to improve healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anuj Budhiraja
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Alisha Mehta
- California Northstate University College of Medicine, Elk Grove, California, USA
| | - Moyasar A Alhamo
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | | | - Sara Dahle
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Podiatry Section, VA Northern California Health Care System, California, USA
| | - R Rivkah Isseroff
- Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Dermatology Section, VA Northern California Health Care System, California, USA
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17
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Giannino G, Braia V, Griffith Brookles C, Giacobbe F, D'Ascenzo F, Angelini F, Saglietto A, De Ferrari GM, Dusi V. The Intrinsic Cardiac Nervous System: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Implications. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:105. [PMID: 38392323 PMCID: PMC10887082 DOI: 10.3390/biology13020105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) plays a pivotal role in cardiac homeostasis as well as in cardiac pathology. The first level of cardiac autonomic control, the intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICNS), is located within the epicardial fat pads and is physically organized in ganglionated plexi (GPs). The ICNS system does not only contain parasympathetic cardiac efferent neurons, as long believed, but also afferent neurons and local circuit neurons. Thanks to its high degree of connectivity, combined with neuronal plasticity and memory capacity, the ICNS allows for a beat-to-beat control of all cardiac functions and responses as well as integration with extracardiac and higher centers for longer-term cardiovascular reflexes. The present review provides a detailed overview of the current knowledge of the bidirectional connection between the ICNS and the most studied cardiac pathologies/conditions (myocardial infarction, heart failure, arrhythmias and heart transplant) and the potential therapeutic implications. Indeed, GP modulation with efferent activity inhibition, differently achieved, has been studied for atrial fibrillation and functional bradyarrhythmias, while GP modulation with efferent activity stimulation has been evaluated for myocardial infarction, heart failure and ventricular arrhythmias. Electrical therapy has the unique potential to allow for both kinds of ICNS modulation while preserving the anatomical integrity of the system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Giannino
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Valentina Braia
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Carola Griffith Brookles
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Federico Giacobbe
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Fabrizio D'Ascenzo
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Filippo Angelini
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Andrea Saglietto
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Gaetano Maria De Ferrari
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Veronica Dusi
- Cardiology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Torino, Italy
- Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Department, 'Città della Salute e della Scienza' Hospital, 10126 Torino, Italy
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18
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Varma N, Han JK, Passman R, Rosman LA, Ghanbari H, Noseworthy P, Avari Silva JN, Deshmukh A, Sanders P, Hindricks G, Lip G, Sridhar AR. Promises and Perils of Consumer Mobile Technologies in Cardiovascular Care: JACC Scientific Statement. J Am Coll Cardiol 2024; 83:611-631. [PMID: 38296406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer (D2C) wearables are becoming increasingly popular in cardiovascular health management because of their affordability and capability to capture diverse health data. Wearables may enable continuous health care provider-patient partnerships and reduce the volume of episodic clinic-based care (thereby reducing health care costs). However, challenges arise from the unregulated use of these devices, including questionable data reliability, potential misinterpretation of information, unintended psychological impacts, and an influx of clinically nonactionable data that may overburden the health care system. Further, these technologies could exacerbate, rather than mitigate, health disparities. Experience with wearables in atrial fibrillation underscores these challenges. The prevalent use of D2C wearables necessitates a collaborative approach among stakeholders to ensure effective integration into cardiovascular care. Wearables are heralding innovative disease screening, diagnosis, and management paradigms, expanding therapeutic avenues, and anchoring personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj Varma
- Heart and Vascular Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
| | - Janet K Han
- Department of Cardiology, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA; Department of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Rod Passman
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lindsey Anne Rosman
- Division of Cardiology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hamid Ghanbari
- Department of Cardiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Peter Noseworthy
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - Abhishek Deshmukh
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Department of Cardiology, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Gregory Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Department of Clinical Medicine, Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Arun R Sridhar
- Department of Cardiology, Pulse Heart Institute, Seattle, Washington, USA; Department of Clinical Medicine, Danish Center for Clinical Health Services Research, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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19
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Stavrakis S, Chakraborty P, Farhat K, Whyte S, Morris L, Abideen Asad ZU, Karfonta B, Anjum J, Matlock HG, Cai X, Yu X. Noninvasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 10:346-355. [PMID: 37999672 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-level transcutaneous stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve at the tragus is antiarrhythmic and anti-inflammatory in animals and humans. Preliminary studies show that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is beneficial in animal models of postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS). OBJECTIVES In this study the authors conducted a sham-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial to examine the effect of tVNS on POTS over a 2-month period relative to sham stimulation. METHODS tVNS (20 Hz, 1 mA below discomfort threshold) was delivered using an ear clip attached to either the tragus (active; n = 12) or the ear lobe (sham; n = 14) for 1 hour daily over a 2-month period. Postural tachycardia was assessed during the baseline and 2-month visit. Heart rate variability based on 5-minute electrocardiogram, serum cytokines, and antiautonomic autoantibodies were measured at the respective time points. RESULTS Mean age was 34 ± 11 years (100% female; 81% Caucasian). Adherence to daily stimulation was 83% in the active arm and 86% in the sham arm (P > 0.05). Postural tachycardia was significantly less in the active arm compared with the sham arm at 2 months (mean postural increase in heart rate 17.6 ± 9.9 beats/min vs 31.7 ± 14.4 beats/min; P = 0.01). Antiadrenergic autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokines were lower in the active arm compared with the sham arm at 2 months (P < 0.05). Heart rate variability was better in the active arm. No device-related side effects were observed. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the emerging paradigm of noninvasive neuromodulation to treat POTS. Mechanistically, this effect appears to be related to reduction of antiautonomic autoantibodies and inflammatory cytokines, and improvement in autonomic tone. Further studies are warranted. (Autoimmune Basis for Postural Tachycardia Syndrome; NCT05043051).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros Stavrakis
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
| | | | - Kassem Farhat
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Seabrook Whyte
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Lynsie Morris
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | | | - Brittany Karfonta
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Juvaria Anjum
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - H Greg Matlock
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Xue Cai
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Xichun Yu
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
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20
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Rast J, Sohinki D, Warner A. Non-invasive Neuromodulation of Arrhythmias. J Innov Card Rhythm Manag 2024; 15:5757-5766. [PMID: 38444451 PMCID: PMC10911637 DOI: 10.19102/icrm.2024.15022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of the cardiac autonomic nervous system (CANS) is associated with various cardiac arrhythmias. Subsequently, invasive techniques have successfully targeted the CANS for the treatment of certain arrhythmias, such as sympathetic denervation for ventricular tachycardia storm. Non-invasive strategies capable of modulating the CANS for arrhythmia treatment have begun to gain interest due to their low-risk profile and applicability as an adjuvant therapy. This review provides an evidence-based overview of the currently studied technologies capable of non-invasively modulating CANS for the suppression of atrial fibrillation and ventricular arrhythmias.
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21
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Schiweck C, Sausmekat S, Zhao T, Jacobsen L, Reif A, Edwin Thanarajah S. No consistent evidence for the anti-inflammatory effect of vagus nerve stimulation in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:237-258. [PMID: 38070618 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been identified as an innovative immunosuppressive treatment strategy in rodent studies. However, its' clinical potential is still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether VNS can reduce inflammatory proteins and/or immune cells in humans, through a pre-registered systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines. The databases Cochrane, Pubmed and World of Knowledge were searched in duplicate up to the 3rd of March 2022 and publications from identified clinical trial registrations were identified until 20th of August 2023. Studies were included if they provided peer-reviewed data for humans who received VNS as short-term (<=1 day) or long-term (>=2 days-365 days) stimulation and reported at least one cytokine or immune cell after treatment.Screening of title, abstract, full text, and data extraction was performed in duplicate by two independent reviewers. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and meta-regression was performed for moderating factors. Reporting bias was assessed. The standardized mean difference (Hedge's g) was used to indicate overall differences of cytokine data (mean and standard deviation or median and interquartile range at the study level) to test our a-priori hypothesis. The systematic review of 36 studies with 1135 participants (355 receiving a control/sham condition and 780 receiving VNS) revealed anti-inflammatory effects of VNS for cytokines in several reports, albeit often in subgroup analyses, but our meta-analyses of 26 studies did not confirm these findings. Although most cytokines were numerically reduced, the reduction did not reach statistical significance after VNS: not in the between-group comparisons (short-term: TNF-α: g = -0.21, p = 0.359; IL-6: g = -0.94, p = 0.112; long-term: TNF-α: g = -0.13, p = 0.196; IL-6: g = -0.67, p = 0.306); nor in the within-study designs (short-term: TNF-α: g = -0.45, p = 0.630; IL-6: g = 0.28, p = 0.840; TNF-α: g = -0.53, p = 0.297; IL-6:g = -0.02, p = 0.954). Only the subgroup analysis of 4 long-term studies with acute inflammation was significant: VNS decreased CRP significantly more than sham stimulation. Additional subgroup analyses including stimulation duration, stimulation method (invasive/non-invasive), immune stimulation, and study quality did not alter results. However, heterogeneity was high, and most studies had poor to fair quality. Given the low number of studies for each disease, a disease-specific analysis was not possible. In conclusion, while numeric effects were reported in individual studies, the current evidence does not substantiate the claim that VNS impacts inflammatory cytokines in humans. However, it may be beneficial during acute inflammatory events. To assess its full potential, high-quality studies and technological advances are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Schiweck
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sonja Sausmekat
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Tong Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Leona Jacobsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sharmili Edwin Thanarajah
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Cologne, Germany.
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22
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Lambiase PD, Garfinkel SN, Taggart P. Psychological stress, the central nervous system and arrhythmias. QJM 2023; 116:977-982. [PMID: 37405867 PMCID: PMC10753407 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review highlights the links between psychological stress and the neurocircuitry of cardiac-brain interactions leading to arrhythmias. The role of efferent and afferent connections in the heart-brain axis is considered, with the mechanisms by which emotional responses promote arrhythmias illustrated by inherited cardiac conditions. Novel therapeutic targets for intervention in the autonomic nervous system are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D Lambiase
- UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science & Barts Heart Centre, Rayne Institute, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK
| | | | - P Taggart
- UCL Institute of Cardiovascular Science & Barts Heart Centre, Rayne Institute, 5 University Street, London WC1E 6JF, UK
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23
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Ackland GL, Martin T, Joseph M, Dias P, Hameed R, Gutierrez del Arroyo A, Hewson R, Abbott TEF, Spooner O, Bhogal P. Transauricular nerve stimulation in acute ischaemic stroke requiring mechanical thrombectomy: Protocol for a phase 2A, proof-of-concept, sham-controlled randomised trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289719. [PMID: 38134136 PMCID: PMC10745208 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Labile blood pressure after acute ischaemic stroke requiring mechanical thrombectomy is independently associated with poor patient outcomes. OBJECTIVES This study protocol describes is designed to determine whether transauricular nerve stimulation, improves baroreflex sensitivity, reduces blood pressure variability in the first 24 hours after acute ischaemic stroke requiring mechanical thrombectomy. DESIGN: PHASE 2A, PROOF-OF-CONCEPT, SHAM-CONTROLLED RANDOMISED TRIAL Methods and Analysis: 36 individuals undergoing mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischaemic stroke with established hypertension aged >18 years will be randomly allocated to receive bilateral active or sham transauricular nerve stimulation for the duration of the mechanical thrombectomy procedure (AffeX-CT/001 investigational device). The intervention will be repeated for 1h the morning following the mechanical thrombectomy. Non-invasive blood pressure will be measured ≥2h for 24h after mechanical thrombectomy. Holter electrocardiographic monitoring will be recorded during transauricular nerve stimulation. Participants, clinicians and investigators will be masked to treatment allocations. The primary outcome will be the coefficient of variation of systolic blood pressure. Secondary outcomes include additional estimates of blood pressure variability and time/frequency-domain measures of autonomic cardiac modulation An adjusted sample size of 36 patients is required to have a 90% chance of detecting, as significant at the 5% level, a difference in the coefficient of variation in systolic blood pressure of 5±4mmHg between sham and active stimulation [assuming 5% non-compliance rate in each group]. Ethics: confirmed on 16 March 2023 by HRA and Health and Care Research Wales ethics committee (reference 23/WA/0013). DISCUSSION This study will provide proof-of-concept data that examines whether non-invasive autonomic neuromodulation can be used to favourably modify blood pressure and autonomic control after acute ischaemic stroke requiring mechanical thrombectomy. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial registration number: NCT05417009.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth L. Ackland
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Martin
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mareena Joseph
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Priyanthi Dias
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rizwan Hameed
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Gutierrez del Arroyo
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Russ Hewson
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tom E. F. Abbott
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Spooner
- Department of Stroke Medicine, London, Royal London Hospital, London, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pervinder Bhogal
- Department of Interventional Neuroradiology, Royal London Hospital, London, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
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Elkattawy HA, Mahmoud SM, Hassan AES, Behiry A, Ebrahim HA, Ibrahim AM, Zaghamir DEF, El-Sherbiny M, El-Sayed SF. Vagal Stimulation Ameliorates Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Rats. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3255. [PMID: 38137476 PMCID: PMC10741668 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The harmful consequences of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are posing an increasing threat to public health as the incidence of diabetes and obesity increases globally. A non-invasive treatment with a range of autonomic and metabolic benefits is transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS). AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the possible preventive impacts of VNS against adult rats' NAFLD caused by a high-fat diet (HFD) and to clarify the underlying mechanisms. METHODS A total of thirty-two adult male rats were split into two groups: the HFD-induced NAFLD group (n = 24) and the control normal group (n = 8). The obesogenic diet was maintained for 12 weeks to induce hepatic steatosis. The HFD-induced NAFLD group (n = 24) was separated into three groups: the group without treatment (n = 8), the group with sham stimulation (n = 8), and the group with VNS treatment (n = 8). VNS was delivered for 30 min per day for 6 weeks after the establishment of NAFLD using a digital TENS device. The subsequent assessments included hepatic triglyceride, cholesterol content, serum lipid profile, and liver function testing. In this context, inflammatory biomarkers (TNF-α, IL-6) and hepatic oxidative stress (MDA, SOD, and GPx) were also assessed. To clarify the possible mechanisms behind the protective benefits of VNS, additional histological inspection and immunohistochemistry analysis of TNF-α and Caspase-3 were performed. RESULTS In the NAFLD-affected obese rats, VNS markedly decreased the rats' body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference (AC). Liver function markers (albumin, ALT, and AST) and the serum lipid profile-which included a notable decrease in the amounts of hepatic triglycerides and cholesterol-were both markedly improved. Additionally, oxidative stress and inflammatory indicators showed a considerable decline with VNS. Notably, the liver tissues examined by histopathologists revealed that there is evidence of the protective impact of VNS on the oxidative and inflammatory states linked to HFD-induced NAFLD while maintaining the architectural and functional condition of the liver. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that VNS may represent a promising therapeutic candidate for managing NAFLD induced by obesity. It can be considered to be an effective adjuvant physiological intervention for the obese population with NAFLD to spare the liver against obesity-induced deleterious injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany A. Elkattawy
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 11579, Saudi Arabia;
- Medical Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44519, Egypt; (A.E.-S.H.); (S.F.E.-S.)
| | - Samar Mortada Mahmoud
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44519, Egypt;
| | - Ahmed El-Sayed Hassan
- Medical Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44519, Egypt; (A.E.-S.H.); (S.F.E.-S.)
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Sulaiman Al-Rajhi University, Bukayriah 51941, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Behiry
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Endemic Diseases, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44519, Egypt;
| | - Hasnaa Ali Ebrahim
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ateya Megahed Ibrahim
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.I.); (D.E.F.Z.)
- Department of Family and Community Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said P.O. Box 42511, Egypt
| | - Donia Elsaid Fathi Zaghamir
- Department of Nursing, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia; (A.M.I.); (D.E.F.Z.)
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said P.O. Box 42511, Egypt
| | - Mohamed El-Sherbiny
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 11579, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sherein F. El-Sayed
- Medical Physiology Department, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig P.O. Box 44519, Egypt; (A.E.-S.H.); (S.F.E.-S.)
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Huang J, Wu B, Qin P, Cheng Y, Zhang Z, Chen Y. Research on atrial fibrillation mechanisms and prediction of therapeutic prospects: focus on the autonomic nervous system upstream pathways. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1270452. [PMID: 38028487 PMCID: PMC10663310 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1270452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common clinical arrhythmia disorder. It can easily lead to complications such as thromboembolism, palpitations, dizziness, angina, heart failure, and stroke. The disability and mortality rates associated with AF are extremely high, significantly affecting the quality of life and work of patients. With the deepening of research into the brain-heart connection, the link between AF and stroke has become increasingly evident. AF is now categorized as either Known Atrial Fibrillation (KAF) or Atrial Fibrillation Detected After Stroke (AFDAS), with stroke as the baseline. This article, through a literature review, briefly summarizes the current pathogenesis of KAF and AFDAS, as well as the status of their clinical pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. It has been found that the existing treatments for KAF and AFDAS have limited efficacy and are often associated with significant adverse reactions and a risk of recurrence. Moreover, most drugs and treatment methods tend to focus on a single mechanism pathway. For example, drugs targeting ion channels primarily modulate ion channels and have relatively limited impact on other pathways. This limitation underscores the need to break away from the "one disease, one target, one drug/measurement" dogma for the development of innovative treatments, promoting both drug and non-drug therapies and significantly improving the quality of clinical treatment. With the increasing refinement of the overall mechanisms of KAF and AFDAS, a deeper exploration of physiological pathology, and comprehensive research on the brain-heart relationship, it is imperative to shift from long-term symptom management to more precise and optimized treatment methods that are effective for almost all patients. We anticipate that drugs or non-drug therapies targeting the central nervous system and upstream pathways can guide the simultaneous treatment of multiple downstream pathways in AF, thereby becoming a new breakthrough in AF treatment research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjie Huang
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Bangqi Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Qin
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yupei Cheng
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziyi Zhang
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yameng Chen
- Postgraduate School, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Cai C, Wu N, Yang G, Yang S, Liu W, Chen M, Po SS. Transcutaneous electrical vagus nerve stimulation to suppress premature ventricular complexes (TREAT PVC): study protocol for a multi-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial. Trials 2023; 24:683. [PMID: 37872628 PMCID: PMC10591365 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07713-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The autonomic nervous system can be responsible for the initiation and maintenance of arrhythmias. Low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS), a noninvasive form of autonomic neuromodulation, has been shown to be effective in treating atrial fibrillation. We intended to treat frequent premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) with LLTS. METHODS AND DESIGN The present study will be a prospective multicenter, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial to assess the antiarrhythmic effects of LLTS on frequent PVCs in patients without structured heart disease (SHD). A total of 100 patients with PVC burden > 10% will be randomly assigned to the active or sham LLTS in 1:1 fashion and receive the proposed intervention for 6 months. The primary outcome is PVC burden at 6 months as assessed by 10 days of continuous ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. Secondary outcomes include heart rate variability (HRV), quality of life, skin sympathetic nerve activity, and inflammatory markers. Adverse events will also be recorded. DISCUSSION The present trial will be the first to evaluate the effect of LLTS on frequent PVCs on patients without SHD. LLTS may serve as a low-cost, minimal-risk, and non-invasive alternative to conventional antiarrhythmic therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrial.gov NCT04909528. Registered on 17 June 2021. World health organization trial registration data set was shown in Supplementary Table 1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Cai
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Shu Yang
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Wenjie Liu
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China
| | - Minglong Chen
- Division of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Sunny S Po
- Heart Rhythm Institute, Section of Cardiovascular Diseases, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma, USA.
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Wang L, Gao F, Wang Z, Liang F, Dai Y, Wang M, Wu J, Chen Y, Yan Q, Wang L. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of disorders of consciousness: mechanisms and applications. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1286267. [PMID: 37920298 PMCID: PMC10618368 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1286267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This review provides an in-depth exploration of the mechanisms and applications of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) in treating disorders of consciousness (DOC). Beginning with an exploration of the vagus nerve's role in modulating brain function and consciousness, we then delve into the neuroprotective potential of taVNS demonstrated in animal models. The subsequent sections assess the therapeutic impact of taVNS on human DOC, discussing the safety, tolerability, and various factors influencing the treatment response. Finally, the review identifies the current challenges in taVNS research and outlines future directions, emphasizing the need for large-scale trials, optimization of treatment parameters, and comprehensive investigation of taVNS's long-term effects and underlying mechanisms. This comprehensive overview positions taVNS as a promising and safe modality for DOC treatment, with a focus on understanding its intricate neurophysiological influence and optimizing its application in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Likai Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Fei Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Zhan Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Feng Liang
- First Clinical Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yongli Dai
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Mengchun Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jingyi Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yaning Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qinjie Yan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Litong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Bazoukis G, Stavrakis S, Armoundas AA. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease: A State-of-the-Art Review. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e030539. [PMID: 37721168 PMCID: PMC10727239 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.030539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been found to exert anti-inflammatory effects in different clinical settings and has been associated with improvement of clinical outcomes. However, evidence on the mechanistic link between the potential association of inflammatory status with clinical outcomes following VNS is scarce. This review aims to summarize the existing knowledge linking VNS with inflammation and its potential link with major outcomes in cardiovascular diseases, in both preclinical and clinical studies. Existing data show that in the setting of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion, VNS seems to reduce inflammation resulting in reduced infarct size and reduced incidence of ventricular arrhythmias during reperfusion. Furthermore, VNS has a protective role in vascular function following myocardial ischemia and reperfusion. Atrial fibrillation burden has also been reduced by VNS, whereas suppression of inflammation may be a potential mechanism for this effect. In the setting of heart failure, VNS was found to improve systolic function and reverse cardiac remodeling. In summary, existing experimental data show a reduction in inflammatory markers by VNS, which may cause improved clinical outcomes in cardiovascular diseases. However, more data are needed to evaluate the association between the inflammatory status with the clinical outcomes following VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Bazoukis
- Department of CardiologyLarnaca General HospitalLarnacaCyprus
- Department of Basic and Clinical SciencesUniversity of Nicosia Medical SchoolNicosiaCyprus
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Heart Rhythm InstituteUniversity of Oklahoma Health Sciences CenterOklahoma CityOKUSA
| | - Antonis A. Armoundas
- Cardiovascular Research CenterMassachusetts General HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Broad Institute, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMAUSA
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Tsai W, Hung TC, Kusayama T, Han S, Fishbein MC, Chen LS, Chen PS. Autonomic Modulation of Atrial Fibrillation. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2023; 8:1398-1410. [PMID: 38094692 PMCID: PMC10714180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2023.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system plays a vital role in cardiac arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, reducing the sympathetic tone via neuromodulation methods may be helpful in AF control. Myocardial ischemia is associated with increased sympathetic tone and incidence of AF. It is an excellent disease model to understand the neural mechanisms of AF and the effects of neuromodulation. This review summarizes the relationship between autonomic nervous system and AF and reviews methods and mechanisms of neuromodulation. This review proposes that noninvasive or minimally invasive neuromodulation methods will be most useful in the future management of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei–Chung Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Chi Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Takashi Kusayama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences Kanazawa, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Seongwook Han
- Department of Cardiology, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea
| | - Michael C. Fishbein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lan S. Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Kaplan A, Lakkis B, El-Samadi L, Karaayvaz EB, Booz GW, Zouein FA. Cooling Down Inflammation in the Cardiovascular System via the Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2023; 82:241-265. [PMID: 37539950 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Inflammation is a major player in many cardiovascular diseases including hypertension, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. In many individuals, these conditions coexist and mutually exacerbate each other's progression. The pathophysiology of these diseases entails the active involvement of both innate and adaptive immune cells. Immune cells that possess the α7 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor on their surface have the potential to be targeted through both pharmacological and electrical stimulation of the cholinergic system. The cholinergic system regulates the inflammatory response to various stressors in different organ systems by systematically suppressing spleen-derived monocytes and chemokines and locally improving immune cell function. Research on the cardiovascular system has demonstrated the potential for atheroma plaque stabilization and regression as favorable outcomes. Smaller infarct size and reduced fibrosis have been associated with improved cardiac function and a decrease in adverse cardiac remodeling. Furthermore, enhanced electrical stability of the myocardium can lead to a reduction in the incidence of ventricular tachyarrhythmia. In addition, improving mitochondrial dysfunction and decreasing oxidative stress can result in less myocardial tissue damage caused by reperfusion injury. Restoring baroreflex activity and reduction in renal damage can promote blood pressure regulation and help counteract hypertension. Thus, the present review highlights the potential of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor activation as a natural approach to alleviate the adverse consequences of inflammation in the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Kaplan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Cardiology, Kemer Public Hospital, Kemer, Antalya, Turkey
- The Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Excellence, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Bachir Lakkis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Lana El-Samadi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ekrem Bilal Karaayvaz
- Department of Cardiology, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - George W Booz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS; and
| | - Fouad A Zouein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
- The Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolic Diseases Research Center of Excellence, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Riad El-Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS; and
- Department of Signaling and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, UMR-S 1180, Inserm, Université Paris-Saclay, France
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Kharbanda RK, Ramdat Misier NL, van Schie MS, Zwijnenburg RD, Amesz JH, Knops P, Bogers AJJC, Taverne YJHJ, de Groot NMS. Insights Into the Effects of Low-Level Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Atrial Electrophysiology: Towards Patient-Tailored Cardiac Neuromodulation. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2023; 9:1843-1853. [PMID: 37480858 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low-level vagus nerve stimulation through the tragus (tLLVNS) is increasingly acknowledged as a therapeutic strategy to prevent and treat atrial fibrillation. However, a lack in understanding of the exact antiarrhythmic properties of tLLVNS has hampered clinical implementation. OBJECTIVES In this study, the authors aimed to study the effects of tLLVNS on atrial electrophysiology by performing intraoperative epicardial mapping during acute and chronic tLLVNS. METHODS Epicardial mapping of the superior right atrium was performed before and after arterial graft harvesting in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting without a history of atrial fibrillation. The time needed for arterial graft harvesting was used to perform chronic tLLVNS. Electrophysiological properties were compared before and during chronic tLLVNS. RESULTS A total of 10 patients (median age 74 years [IQR: 69-78 years]) underwent tLLVNS for a duration of 56 minutes (IQR: 43-73 minutes). During acute and chronic tLLVNS, a shift of the sinoatrial node exit site toward a more cranial direction was observed in 5 (50%) patients. Unipolar potential voltage increased significantly during acute and chronic tLLVNS (3.9 mV [IQR: 3.1-4.8 mV] vs 4.7 mV [IQR: 4.0-5.3 mV] vs 5.2 mV [IQR: 4.8-7.0 mV]; P = 0.027, P = 0.02, respectively). Total activation time, slope of unipolar potentials, amount of fractionation, low-voltage areas and conduction velocity did not differ significantly between baseline measurements and tLLVNS. Two patients showed consistent "improvement" of all electrophysiological properties during tLLVNS, while 1 patient appeared to have no beneficial effect. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrated that tLLVNS resulted in a significant increase in unipolar potential voltage. In addition, we observed the following in selective patients: 1) reduction in total activation time; 2) steeper slope of unipolar potentials; 3) decrease in the amount of fractionation; and 4) change in sinoatrial node exit sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit K Kharbanda
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Roxanne D Zwijnenburg
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jorik H Amesz
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Knops
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ad J J C Bogers
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Hua K, Cummings M, Bernatik M, Brinkhaus B, Usichenko T, Dietzel J. Cardiovascular effects of auricular stimulation -a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1227858. [PMID: 37727325 PMCID: PMC10505819 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1227858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The number of randomized controlled trials using auricular stimulation (AS) such as transauricular vagus nerve stimulation, or other auricular electrostimulation or auricular acupuncture or acupressure, in experimental and clinical settings, has increased markedly over the last three decades. This systematic review focusses on cardiovascular effects of auricular stimulation. Methods and analysis The following databases were searched: MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ISI Web of Science, and Scopus Database. RCTs were reviewed that had been published in English and European languages. Data collection and analysis was conducted by two reviewers independently. Quality and risk assessment of included studies was performed and the meta-analysis of the effect of the most frequently assessed biomarkers. Results Altogether, 78 trials were included. 38 studies assessed heart rate (HR), 19 studies analyzed heart rate variability (HRV), 31 studies analyzed blood pressure (BP) and 7 studies were identified that measured oxygen saturation (O2), 2 studies on baroreflex sensitivity and 2 studies on skin conductance were evaluated in this review. 26 studies contained continuous data and were eligible for meta-analysis, 50 trials reported non continuous data and were evaluated descriptively. The overall quality of the studies was moderate to low. AS leads to a significant reduction of HR, the changes though were not considered an adverse reaction. Furthermore, when looking at HRV, AS was able to reduce the LF/HF ratio significantly compared to control procedures. No other cardiovascular parameters (blood pressure, oxygen saturation, baroreflex sensitivity) were changed significantly. AS produced only minor side effects in all trials. Conclusion AS can lead to clinically safe reduction of HR and changes in the LF/HF ratio of the HRV, which is presumably via an increase in vagal activity. More research is needed to clarify whether AS can be used to modulate tachycardia or indications with autonomic imbalance. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=231885 PROSPERO, ID CRD42021231885.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Hua
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mike Cummings
- British Medical Acupuncture Society, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Benno Brinkhaus
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Taras Usichenko
- Department for Anesthesiology, University Hospital Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Anesthesia, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Joanna Dietzel
- Institute for Social Medicine, Epidemiology and Health Economics, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - University Medicine, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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Seitz T, Bergmayr F, Kitzberger R, Holbik J, Grieb A, Hind J, Lucny F, Tyercha A, Neuhold S, Krenn C, Wenisch C, Zoufaly A, Kaniusas E, Széles JC. Randomized controlled study to evaluate the safety and clinical impact of percutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in patients with severe COVID-19. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1223347. [PMID: 37614753 PMCID: PMC10442574 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1223347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: A severe course of COVID-19 is characterized by a hyperinflammatory state resulting in acute respiratory distress syndrome or even multi-organ failure along a derailed sympatho-vagal balance. Methods: In this prospective, randomized study, we evaluate the hypothesis that percutaneous minimally invasive auricular vagus nerve stimulation (aVNS) is a safe procedure and might reduce the rate of clinical complications in patients with severe course of COVID-19. In our study, patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to the intensive care unit with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, however without invasive ventilation yet, were included and following randomization assigned to a group receiving aVNS four times per 24 h for 3 h and a group receiving standard of care (SOC). Results: A total of 12 patients were included (six in the aVNS and six in the SOC group). No side effects in aVNS were reported, especially no significant pain at device placement or during stimulation at the stimulation site or significant headache or bleeding after or during device placement or lasting skin irritation. There was no significant difference in the aVNS and SOC groups between the length of stay in the intensive care unit and at the hospital, bradycardia, delirium, or 90-day mortality. In the SOC group, five of six patients required invasive mechanical ventilation during their stay at hospital and 60% of them venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, compared to three of six patients and 0% in the aVNS group (p = 0.545 and p = 0.061). Discussion: Vagus nerve stimulation in patients with severe COVID-19 is a safe and feasible method. Our data showed a trend to a reduction of progression to the need of invasive ventilation and venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation which encourages further research with larger patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Seitz
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franziska Bergmayr
- Faculty of Medicine, Sigmund Freud University, Vienna, Austria
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, Center for Wound Surgery and Special Pain Therapy, Health Service Center of Vienna Privat Clinics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Anesthesiology and General Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Reinhard Kitzberger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Holbik
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Grieb
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julian Hind
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Felix Lucny
- Department of Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Tyercha
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, Center for Wound Surgery and Special Pain Therapy, Health Service Center of Vienna Privat Clinics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephanie Neuhold
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claus Krenn
- Department of Anesthesiology and General Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Wenisch
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Zoufaly
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Clinic Favoriten, Vienna, Austria
- Faculty of Medicine, Sigmund Freud University, Vienna, Austria
| | - Eugenijus Kaniusas
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Institute of Biomedical Electronics, Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien), Vienna, Austria
| | - József Constantin Széles
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, Center for Wound Surgery and Special Pain Therapy, Health Service Center of Vienna Privat Clinics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Wu Z, Liao J, Liu Q, Zhou S, Chen M. Chronic vagus nerve stimulation in patients with heart failure: challenge or failed translation? Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1052471. [PMID: 37534273 PMCID: PMC10390725 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1052471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Autonomic imbalance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems contributes to the progression of chronic heart failure (HF). Preclinical studies have demonstrated that various neuromodulation strategies may exert beneficial cardioprotective effects in preclinical models of HF. Based on these encouraging experimental data, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been assessed in patients with HF with a reduced ejection fraction. Nevertheless, the main trials conducted thus far have yielded conflicting findings, questioning the clinical efficacy of VNS in this context. This review will therefore focus on the role of the autonomic nervous system in HF pathophysiology and VNS therapy, highlighting the potential reasons behind the discrepancy between preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiaying Liao
- Department of Nephrology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qiming Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shenghua Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingxian Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
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Nagai M, Dote K, Förster CY. Denervation or stimulation? Role of sympatho-vagal imbalance in HFpEF with hypertension. Hypertens Res 2023; 46:1727-1737. [PMID: 37045971 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-023-01272-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) in the elderly is an increasingly large and complex problem in modern society. Notably, the cause of HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is multifactorial and its pathophysiology is not fully understood. Among these, hypertension has emerged as a pivotal factor in the pathophysiology and therapeutic targets of HFpEF. Neuronal elements distributed throughout the cardiac autonomic nervous system, from the level of the central autonomic network including the insular cortex to the intrinsic cardiac nervous system, regulate the human cardiovascular system. Specifically, increased sympathetic nervous system activity due to sympatho-vagal imbalance is suggested to be associated the relationship between hypertension and HFpEF. While several new pharmacological therapies, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, have been shown to be effective in HFpEF, neuromodulatory therapies of renal denervation and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) have received recent attention. The current review explores the pathophysiology of the brain-heart axis that underlies the relationship between hypertension and HFpEF and the rationale for therapeutic neuromodulation of HFpEF by non-invasive transcutaneous VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Keigo Dote
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Carola Yvette Förster
- University Hospital Würzburg, Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, Würzburg, Germany
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Saleeb-Mousa J, Nathanael D, Coney AM, Kalla M, Brain KL, Holmes AP. Mechanisms of Atrial Fibrillation in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. Cells 2023; 12:1661. [PMID: 37371131 DOI: 10.3390/cells12121661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a strong independent risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF). Emerging clinical data cite adverse effects of OSA on AF induction, maintenance, disease severity, and responsiveness to treatment. Prevention using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is effective in some groups but is limited by its poor compliance. Thus, an improved understanding of the underlying arrhythmogenic mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel therapies and/or better selection of those currently available to complement CPAP in alleviating the burden of AF in OSA. Arrhythmogenesis in OSA is a multifactorial process characterised by a combination of acute atrial stimulation on a background of chronic electrical, structural, and autonomic remodelling. Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), a key feature of OSA, is associated with long-term adaptive changes in myocyte ion channel currents, sensitising the atria to episodic bursts of autonomic reflex activity. CIH is also a potent driver of inflammatory and hypoxic stress, leading to fibrosis, connexin downregulation, and conduction slowing. Atrial stretch is brought about by negative thoracic pressure (NTP) swings during apnoea, promoting further chronic structural remodelling, as well as acutely dysregulating calcium handling and electrical function. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of these topical mechanistic insights and their roles in arrhythmia.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Saleeb-Mousa
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Demitris Nathanael
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew M Coney
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Manish Kalla
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham B15 2GW, UK
| | - Keith L Brain
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Andrew P Holmes
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Sant'Anna FM, Resende RCL, Sant'Anna LB, Couceiro SLM, Pinto RBS, Sant'Anna MB, Chao LW, Szeles JC, Kaniusas E. Auricular vagus nerve stimulation: a new option to treat inflammation in COVID-19? REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2023; 69:e20230345. [PMID: 37283364 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20230345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Mendes Sant'Anna
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro - Macaé (RJ), Brazil
- Hospital Santa Izabel - Cabo Frio (RJ), Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Liaw Wen Chao
- Universidade de São Paulo, Hospital das Clínicas - São Paulo (SP), Brazil
| | - Jozsef Constantin Szeles
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery - Vienna, Austria
| | - Eugenijus Kaniusas
- Vienna Universit y of Technology, Institute of Biomedical Electronics, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology - Vienna, Austria
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Couceiro SM, Sant’Anna LB, Sant’Anna MB, Menezes RSM, Mesquita ET, Sant’Anna FM. Auricular Vagal Neuromodulation and its Application in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction. Arq Bras Cardiol 2023; 120:e20220581. [PMID: 37194830 PMCID: PMC10263391 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20220581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The autonomic nervous system (ANS) imbalance in heart failure (HF) creates a vicious cycle, excess sympathetic activity, and decreased vagal activity contributing to the worsening of HF. Low-intensity transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (taVNS) is well tolerated and opens new therapeutic possibilities. OBJECTIVES To hypothesize the applicability and benefit of taVNS in HF through intergroup comparison of echocardiography parameters, 6-minute walk test, Holter heart rate variability (SDNN and rMSSD), Minnesota quality of life questionnaire, and functional class by the New York Heart Association. In comparisons, p values <0.05 were considered significant. METHODS Prospective, double-blind, randomized clinical study with sham methodology, unicentric. Forty-three patients were evaluated and divided into 2 groups: Group 1 received taVNS (frequencies 2/15 Hz), and Group 2 received sham. In comparisons, p values <0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS In the post-intervention phase, it was observed that Group 1 had better rMSSD (31 x 21; p = 0.046) and achieved better SDNN (110 vs. 84, p = 0.033). When comparing intragroup parameters before and after the intervention, it was observed that all of them improved significantly in group 1, and there were no differences in group 2. CONCLUSION taVNS is a safe to perform and easy intervention and suggests a probable benefit in HF by improving heart rate variability, which indicates better autonomic balance. New studies with more patients are needed to answer the questions raised by this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Menezes Couceiro
- Universidade Federal FluminenseCabo FrioRJBrasilUniversidade Federal Fluminense, Cabo Frio, RJ – Brasil
- Clínica Santa Helena – CardiologiaCabo FrioRJBrasilClínica Santa Helena – Cardiologia, Cabo Frio, RJ – Brasil
| | - Lucas Bonacossa Sant’Anna
- Fundação Técnico-Educacional Souza MarquesEscola de Medicina Souza MarquesCabo FrioRJBrasilFundação Técnico-Educacional Souza Marques Escola de Medicina Souza Marques – Ensino e Graduação, Cabo Frio, RJ – Brasil
| | - Mariana Bonacossa Sant’Anna
- Fundação Técnico-Educacional Souza MarquesEscola de Medicina Souza MarquesCabo FrioRJBrasilFundação Técnico-Educacional Souza Marques Escola de Medicina Souza Marques – Ensino e Graduação, Cabo Frio, RJ – Brasil
| | | | - Evandro Tinoco Mesquita
- Complexo Hospitalar de NiteróiNiteróiRJBrasilComplexo Hospitalar de Niterói, Niterói, RJ – Brasil
- Universidade Federal FluminenseRio de JaneiroRJBrasilUniversidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, RJ – Brasil
| | - Fernando Mendes Sant’Anna
- Clínica Santa Helena – CardiologiaCabo FrioRJBrasilClínica Santa Helena – Cardiologia, Cabo Frio, RJ – Brasil
- Universidade Federal do Rio de JaneiroCampus Macaé – Ensino e GraduaçãoMacaéRJBrasilUniversidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Campus Macaé – Ensino e Graduação, Macaé, RJ – Brasil
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Zhang S, He H, Wang Y, Wang X, Liu X. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation as a potential novel treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7721. [PMID: 37173458 PMCID: PMC10182028 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34746-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of childbearing age. The etiology of PCOS is multifactorial, and current treatments for PCOS are far from satisfactory. Recently, an imbalanced autonomic nervous system (ANS) with sympathetic hyperactivity and reduced parasympathetic nerve activity (vagal tone) has aroused increasing attention in the pathogenesis of PCOS. In this paper, we review an innovative therapy for the treatment of PCOS and related co-morbidities by targeting parasympathetic modulation based on non-invasive transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (ta-VNS). In this work, we present the role of the ANS in the development of PCOS and describe a large number of experimental and clinical reports that support the favorable effects of VNS/ta-VNS in treating a variety of symptoms, including obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus, inflammation, microbiome dysregulation, cardiovascular disease, and depression, all of which are also commonly present in PCOS patients. We propose a model focusing on ta-VNS that may treat PCOS by (1) regulating energy metabolism via bidirectional vagal signaling; (2) reversing insulin resistance via its antidiabetic effect; (3) activating anti-inflammatory pathways; (4) restoring homeostasis of the microbiota-gut-brain axis; (5) restoring the sympatho-vagal balance to improve CVD outcomes; (6) and modulating mental disorders. ta-VNS is a safe clinical procedure and it might be a promising new treatment approach for PCOS, or at least a supplementary treatment for current therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shike Zhang
- Southern University of Science and Technology Yantian Hospital, Shenzhen, 518081, China
- Shenzhen Yantian District People's Hospital, Shenzhen, 518081, China
| | - Hui He
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Yu Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine, Harbin, 150040, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xiaofang Liu
- Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, China
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Gee MM, Lenhoff AM, Schwaber JS, Ogunnaike BA, Vadigepalli R. Closed-loop modeling of central and intrinsic cardiac nervous system circuits underlying cardiovascular control. AIChE J 2023; 69:e18033. [PMID: 37250861 PMCID: PMC10211393 DOI: 10.1002/aic.18033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The baroreflex is a multi-input, multi-output control physiological system that regulates blood pressure by modulating nerve activity between the brainstem and the heart. Existing computational models of the baroreflex do not explictly incorporate the intrinsic cardiac nervous system (ICN), which mediates central control of the heart function. We developed a computational model of closed-loop cardiovascular control by integrating a network representation of the ICN within central control reflex circuits. We examined central and local contributions to the control of heart rate, ventricular functions, and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA). Our simulations match the experimentally observed relationship between RSA and lung tidal volume. Our simulations predicted the relative contributions of the sensory and the motor neuron pathways to the experimentally observed changes in the heart rate. Our closed-loop cardiovascular control model is primed for evaluating bioelectronic interventions to treat heart failure and renormalize cardiovascular physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Gee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
- Daniel Baugh Institute of Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Abraham M Lenhoff
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
| | - James S Schwaber
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
- Daniel Baugh Institute of Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Babatunde A Ogunnaike
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
| | - Rajanikanth Vadigepalli
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716
- Daniel Baugh Institute of Functional Genomics/Computational Biology, Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107
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Soltani D, Stavrakis S. Neuromodulation for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation—How to Optimize Patient Selection and the Procedural Approach. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-023-00718-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
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Gurtubay IG, Perez-Rodriguez DR, Fernandez E, Librero-Lopez J, Calvo D, Bermejo P, Pinin-Osorio C, Lopez M. Immediate effects and duration of a short and single application of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on P300 event related potential. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1096865. [PMID: 37051148 PMCID: PMC10083261 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1096865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionTranscutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a neuromodulatory technique that stimulates the auricular branch of the vagus nerve. The modulation of the locus coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) network is one of the potential working mechanisms of this method. Our aims were 1-to investigate if short and single applications of taVNS can modulate the P300 cognitive event-related potential (ERP) as an indirect marker that reflects NE brain activation under control of the LC, and 2-to evaluate the duration of these changes.Methods20 healthy volunteers executed an auditory oddball paradigm to obtain P300 and reaction time (RT) values. Then a 7 min active or sham taVNS period was initiated and simultaneously a new P300 paradigm was performed. We successively repeated the paradigm on 4 occasions with different time intervals up to 56 min after the stimulation onset.ResultsDuring active taVNS an immediate and significant effect of increasing the amplitude and reducing the latency of P300, as well as a shortening in the RT was observed. This effect was prolonged in time up to 28 min. The values then returned to pre-stimulation levels. Sham stimulation did not generate changes.DiscussionOur results, demonstrate differential facilitating effects in a concrete time window after taVNS. Literature about the modulatory effect of taVNS over P300 ERP shows a wide spread of results. There is not a standardized system for taVNS and currently the great heterogeneity of stimulation approaches concerning targets and parameters, make it difficult to obtain conclusions about this relationship. Our study was designed optimizing several stimulation settings, such as a customized earbud stimulator, enlarged stimulating surface, simultaneous stimulation over the cymba and cavum conchae, a Delayed Biphasic Pulse Burst and current controlled stimulation that adjusted the output voltage and guaranteed the administration of a preset electrical dose. Under our stimulation conditions, targeting vagal nerve fibers via taVNS modulates the P300 in healthy participants. The optimal settings of modulatory function of taVNS on P300, and their interdependency is insufficiently studied in the literature, but our data provides several easily optimizable parameters, that will produce more robust results in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñaki G. Gurtubay
- Department of Neurophysiology, University Hospital of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain
- Navarrabiomed Biomedical Research Centre, Pamplona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Iñaki G. Gurtubay,
| | | | | | | | - David Calvo
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiovascular Institute, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Asturias, Spain
| | - Pedro Bermejo
- Neurologist, Translational Medicine UCB Pharma, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Miguel Lopez
- Xana Smart Neurostimulation, Epalinges, Switzerland
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Nagai M, Dote K, Kato M, Sasaki S, Oda N, Förster CY. Afterload reduction after non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation in acute heart failure. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1149449. [PMID: 37033910 PMCID: PMC10076847 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1149449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While central blood pressure (BP) has been recognized as a major indicator of left ventricular (LV) afterload, the reduction of central pressure decreases LV afterload and may prevent heart failure (HF) decompensation. Non-invasive transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) was shown to improve cardiac function in HF patients. In this study, the relationship between active tVNS and reduction of central BP was investigated in patients with acute HF (AHF). Methods The 22 patients hospitalized for AHF after initial stabilization (median 80 yrs, males 60%) were randomly assigned to active or sham group. For 1 h daily over 5 days, low-level transcutaneous electrical stimulation (LLTS) (20 Hz, 1 mA) was performed after attaching an ear clip to the tragus (active group) or the earlobe (sham control group). Before and after stimulation, central aortic systolic pressure (CASP), brachial systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) as well as heart rate (HR) were noninvasively measured. Results No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the active and sham groups. In the active group, CASP, SBP, DBP, and HR each decreased significantly after stimulation (all p < 0.05), whereas in the sham group, CASP, SBP, DBP, and HR each increased significantly after stimulation (all p < 0.05). All the changes in CASP, SBP, DBP and HR before and after stimulation were also significantly different between active and sham groups (all p < 0.01). There were no device-related side effects. Conclusion In this study, the left tragus tVNS resulted in an acute afterload reduction in the elderly AHF patients. Non-invasive LLTS may be useful and safe for reducing afterload in AHF. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier UMIN000044121.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiaki Nagai
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Keigo Dote
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masaya Kato
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Shota Sasaki
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Noboru Oda
- Department of Cardiology, Hiroshima City Asa Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Carola Y Förster
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Deng J, Li H, Guo Y, Zhang G, Fischer H, Stavrakis S, Yu X. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation attenuates autoantibody-mediated cardiovagal dysfunction and inflammation in a rabbit model of postural tachycardia syndrome. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2023; 66:291-300. [PMID: 35118574 PMCID: PMC9349471 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01144-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies demonstrated M2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor-activating autoantibodies (M2R-AAb) were present in some patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS). This study examines how these autoantibodies might contribute to the pathophysiology of POTS, and whether low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS) can ameliorate autoantibody-mediated autonomic dysregulation in the rabbit. METHODS Five New Zealand white rabbits were immunized with a M2R second extracellular loop peptide to produce cholinomimetic M2R-AAb. Tilt test and infusion studies were performed on conscious rabbits before immunization, 6 weeks after immunization, and 8 weeks after immunization with 2-week daily LLTS treatment. Each rabbit served as its own control. RESULTS Compared to preimmune state, an enhanced heart rate increase and decreased parasympathetic activity upon tilting were observed in immunized rabbits. Furthermore, these rabbits demonstrated an attenuated heart rate-slowing response to infusion of the M2R orthosteric agonist arecaidine propargyl ester (APE), suggesting an inhibitory allosteric effect of M2R-AAb. There was also a significant increase in serum inflammatory cytokines in immunized rabbits. LLTS treatment suppressed the postural tachycardia, improved the sympathovagal balance with increased acetylcholine secretion, reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines, and reversed the attenuated heart rate response to APE in immunized rabbits. No suppression of M2R-AAb expression by LLTS was found during this short-term study period. Receptor-modulating activity of M2R-AAb produced in immunized rabbits was confirmed with in vitro bioassay. CONCLUSIONS Autoantibody inhibition of cholinergic ligand activity may be involved in the development of cardiovagal dysfunction and inflammation associated with POTS, both of which can be improved by vagal stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jielin Deng
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Hongliang Li
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Yankai Guo
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Gege Zhang
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Hayley Fischer
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Stavros Stavrakis
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Xichun Yu
- Department of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA.
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Elamin ABA, Forsat K, Senok SS, Goswami N. Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Its Cardioprotective Abilities: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051717. [PMID: 36902505 PMCID: PMC10003006 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) being used in neuroscience, it has recently been highlighted that it has cardioprotective functions. However, many studies related to VNS are not mechanistic in nature. This systematic review aims to focus on the role of VNS in cardioprotective therapy, selective vagus nerve stimulators (sVNS), and their functional capabilities. A systemic review of the current literature was conducted on VNS, sVNS, and their ability to induce positive effects on arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and heart failure. Both experimental and clinical studies were reviewed and assessed separately. Of 522 research articles retrieved from literature archives, 35 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Literature analysis proves that combining fiber-type selectivity with spatially-targeted vagus nerve stimulation is feasible. The role of VNS as a tool for modulating heart dynamics, inflammatory response, and structural cellular components was prominently seen across the literature. The application of transcutaneous VNS, as opposed to implanted electrodes, provides the best clinical outcome with minimal side effects. VNS presents a method for future cardiovascular treatment that can modulate human cardiac physiology. However, continued research is needed for further insight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kowthar Forsat
- College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Solomon Silas Senok
- College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nandu Goswami
- Institute of Physiology (Gravitational Physiology and Medicine), Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai P.O. Box 505055, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence:
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Hemodynamic responses to low-level transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation in young volunteers. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2023; 14:154-159. [PMID: 36824666 PMCID: PMC9941060 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to characterize cardiovascular autonomic responses during two constant current intensities below sensory threshold of transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation (taNS). On this basis, a protocol for taNS with autonomic modulatory potential could be proposed. Subjects and methods We included 26 men and 24 women, mean age 26. Data were collected during three randomly allocated 20-minute right tragus stimulation sessions - a) no-stimulation (sham), b) 90 µA (arbitrary), and c) 130 µA (near the lowest sensory threshold in majority). Stimulation was 20 Hz, rectangular pulse width of 2 ms, duty cycle 2-second on/off. To assess autonomic responses, we continuously recorded ECG, non-invasive arterial blood pressure (BP) and thoracic impedance cardiography data. Ten-minute data were compared. Fast Fourier transform of RR intervals was performed on 10-minute recordings as well. Low frequency and high frequency power spectra were calculated. Friedman test or one-way ANOVA for repeated measurements and Mann-Whitney or Wilcoxon's signed-rank test, or t-test were carried out. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results At 130 µA stimulation, cardiac output significantly decreased (p < 0.05), driven by significant heart rate drop in women, and stroke volume and contractility drop in men, pointing to a gender-related autonomic responses. We observed no significant changes in BP, or variability parameters. Significantly higher body size and BP were found in men, as expected. Conclusions It seems that tested taNS protocol has a potential for cardiac autonomic modulation in majority of young healthy men as well as women. Further studies are however needed to prove the therapeutic potential of this stimulation protocol in different patient groups.
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Low-level tragus stimulation improves autoantibody-induced hyperadrenergic postural tachycardia syndrome in rabbits. Heart Rhythm O2 2023; 4:127-133. [PMID: 36873318 PMCID: PMC9975011 DOI: 10.1016/j.hroo.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recent studies have demonstrated that antiadrenergic autoantibodies are involved in the pathophysiology of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Objective The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that transcutaneous low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS) ameliorates autoantibody-induced autonomic dysfunction and inflammation in a rabbit model of autoimmune POTS. Methods Six New Zealand white rabbits were co-immunized with peptides from the α1-adrenergic and β1-adrenergic receptors to produce sympathomimetic antibodies. The tilt test was performed on conscious rabbits before immunization, 6 weeks after immunization, and 10 weeks after immunization with 4-week daily LLTS treatment. Each rabbit served as its own control. Results An enhanced postural heart rate increase in the absence of significant change in blood pressure was observed in immunized rabbits, confirming our previous report. Power spectral analysis of heart rate variability during the tilt test showed a predominance of sympathetic over parasympathetic activity in immunized rabbits as reflected by markedly increased low-frequency power, decreased high-frequency power, and increased low-to-high-frequency ratio. Serum inflammatory cytokines were also significantly increased in immunized rabbits. LLTS suppressed the postural tachycardia, improved the sympathovagal balance with increased acetylcholine secretion, and attenuated the inflammatory cytokine expression. Antibody production and activity were confirmed with in vitro assays, and no antibody suppression by LLTS was found in this short-term study. Conclusion LLTS improves cardiac autonomic imbalance and inflammation in a rabbit model of autoantibody-induced hyperadrenergic POTS, suggesting that LLTS may be used as a novel neuromodulation therapy for POTS.
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Linnhoff S, Koehler L, Haghikia A, Zaehle T. The therapeutic potential of non-invasive brain stimulation for the treatment of Long-COVID-related cognitive fatigue. Front Immunol 2023; 13:935614. [PMID: 36700201 PMCID: PMC9869163 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.935614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Following an acute COVID-19 infection, a large number of patients experience persisting symptoms for more than four weeks, a condition now classified as Long-COVID syndrome. Interestingly, the likelihood and severity of Long-COVID symptoms do not appear to be related to the severity of the acute COVID-19 infection. Fatigue is amongst the most common and debilitating symptoms of Long-COVID. Other symptomes include dyspnoea, chest pain, olfactory disturbances, and brain fog. Fatigue is also frequently reported in many other neurological diseases, affecting a broad range of everyday activities. However, despite its clinical significance, limited progress has been made in understanding its causes and developing effective treatment options. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) methods offer the unique opportunity to modulate fatigue-related maladaptive neuronal activity. Recent data show promising results of NIBS applications over frontoparietal regions to reduce fatigue symptoms. In this current paper, we review recent data on Long-COVID and Long-COVID-related fatigue (LCOF), with a special focus on cognitive fatigue. We further present widely used NIBS methods, such as transcranial direct current stimulation, transcranial alternating current stimulation, and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation and propose their use as possible therapeutic strategies to alleviate individual pathomechanisms of LCOF. Since NIBS methods are safe and well-tolerated, they have the potential to enhance the quality of life in a broad group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Linnhoff
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lilli Koehler
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Aiden Haghikia
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
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Karatela MF, Fudim M, Mathew JP, Piccini JP. Neuromodulation therapy for atrial fibrillation. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:100-111. [PMID: 35988908 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation has a multifactorial pathophysiology influenced by cardiac autonomic innervation. Both sympathetic and parasympathetic influences are profibrillatory. Innovative therapies targeting the neurocardiac axis include catheter ablation or pharmacologic suppression of ganglionated plexi, renal sympathetic denervation, low-level vagal stimulation, and stellate ganglion blockade. To date, these therapies have variable efficacy. As our understanding of atrial fibrillation and the cardiac nervous system expands, our approach to therapeutic neuromodulation will continue evolving for the benefit of those with AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maham F Karatela
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Marat Fudim
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Joseph P Mathew
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan P Piccini
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Duke Heart Center and Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina.
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50
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Aksu T, Skeete JR, Huang HH. Ganglionic Plexus Ablation: A Step-by-step Guide for Electrophysiologists and Review of Modalities for Neuromodulation for the Management of Atrial Fibrillation. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2023; 12:e02. [PMID: 36845167 PMCID: PMC9945432 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2022.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As the most common sustained arrhythmia, AF is a complex clinical entity which remains a difficult condition to durably treat in the majority of patients. Over the past few decades, the management of AF has focused mainly on pulmonary vein triggers for its initiation and perpetuation. It is well known that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) has a significant role in the milieu predisposing to the triggers, perpetuators and substrate for AF. Neuromodulation of ANS - ganglionated plexus ablation, vein of Marshall ethanol infusion, transcutaneous tragal stimulation, renal nerve denervation, stellate ganglion block and baroreceptor stimulation - constitute an emerging therapeutic approach for AF. The purpose of this review is to summarise and critically appraise the currently available evidence for neuromodulation modalities in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tolga Aksu
- Department of Cardiology, Yeditepe University Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Henry H Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Rush Medical College, Chicago, IL, US
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