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Shiraishi H, Egawa K, Murakami K, Nakajima M, Ueda Y, Nakakubo S, Narugami M, Kimura S, Goto T, Hiramatsu Y, Murakami M. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation therapy in patients with cognitively preserved structural focal epilepsy: A case series report. Brain Dev 2024; 46:49-56. [PMID: 37657962 DOI: 10.1016/j.braindev.2023.08.007] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) was performed in two patients suffering structural focal epilepsy with preserved intellectual ability to show the feasibility of taVNS for specific patient groups. CASE PRESENTATIONS Patient 1 was a 24-year-old woman with frontal lobe epilepsy who had weekly hyperkinetic seizures despite multiple anti-seizure medications. Patient 2 was a 27-year-old woman with parietal lobe epilepsy and focal cortical dysplasia in the vicinity of the lipoma in the corpus callosum. She experienced weekly focal-impaired awareness seizures even with anti-seizure medication. taVNS was applied to the left earlobe of both patients at 1.5 mA, 25 Hz, 250 μs pulse width, and 30 s stimulation with 30 s rest for 4 h per day. Over an 8-week baseline and 20 weeks of stimulation, the rate of reduction in seizure frequency was evaluated, along with quality-of-life using the Short-Form 36-Item Health survey. RESULTS At baseline, we measured up to 11 and 12 focal seizures per week in Patient 1 and 2, respectively, with both patients achieving seizure freedom after 4 and 20 weeks taVNS, respectively. Patient 1 and 2 were observed for 18 and 14 months, respectively, including the clinical trial and follow-up observation period. Quality-of-life ratings increased in both patients, and no significant adverse events occurred during the study period. During the maintenance period after 20 weeks, seizures remained absent in Patient 1, and seizures remained reduced in Patient 2. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that taVNS may be a promising tool for structural focal epilepsy with preserved cognitive function. A multicenter double-blind clinical trial is needed to confirm the role of taVNS as an anti-seizure tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Shiraishi
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan.
| | - Kiyoshi Egawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Kaoru Murakami
- Division of Molecular Psychoneuroimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
| | - Midori Nakajima
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Yuki Ueda
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Sachiko Nakakubo
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Masashi Narugami
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Shuhei Kimura
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Takeru Goto
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Yasuyoshi Hiramatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Hokkaido University Hospital Epilepsy Center, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Masaaki Murakami
- Division of Molecular Psychoneuroimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan; Group of Quantum Immunology, Institute for Quantum Life Science, National Institute for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST), Chiba 263-8555, Japan; Division of Molecular Neuroimmunology, Department of Homeostatic Regulation, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Aichi 444-8585, Japan; Institute for Vaccine Research and Development (HU-IVReD), Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan.
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Menekseoglu AK, Korkmaz MD, Is EE, Basoglu C, Ozden AV. Acute Effect of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Hand Tremor in Parkinson's Disease: A Pilot Study of Case Series. SISLI ETFAL HASTANESI TIP BULTENI 2023; 57:513-519. [PMID: 38268660 PMCID: PMC10805042 DOI: 10.14744/semb.2023.77200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) on tremor in Parkinson's disease (PD). Methods This single-center, prospective, and implementation study with before-after design included five participants diagnosed with PD. Auricular VNS was applied to each participant 3 times on different days. VNS was applied to the participants as the right ear, left ear, and bilateral ear. The cardiovascular parameters of the participants were evaluated with Kubios HRV Standard and tremor with UPDRS tremor subscale and smartphone application before and after the intervention. Results Significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure (p=0.043) was found in participants who underwent bilateral auricular VNS. Although there was no significant change in the UPDRS tremor subscale, decreases in the maximum tremor amplitude in the x (p=0.043) and y (0.014) planes were detected in the measurements made with the smartphone application. Conclusion In this study, a decrease in the tremor amplitude measured in the 3D plane with auricular VNS was found in patients with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Kivanc Menekseoglu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Merve Damla Korkmaz
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Research and Training Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Enes Efe Is
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Sisli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ceyhun Basoglu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University Atakent Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ali Veysel Ozden
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, BHT Clinic Istanbul Tema Hospital, Istanbul, Türkiye
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Seicol BJ, Guo Z, Garrity K, Xie R. Potential uses of auditory nerve stimulation to modulate immune responses in the inner ear and auditory brainstem. Front Integr Neurosci 2023; 17:1294525. [PMID: 38162822 PMCID: PMC10755874 DOI: 10.3389/fnint.2023.1294525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Bioelectronic medicine uses electrical stimulation of the nervous system to improve health outcomes throughout the body primarily by regulating immune responses. This concept, however, has yet to be applied systematically to the auditory system. There is growing interest in how cochlear damage and associated neuroinflammation may contribute to hearing loss. In conjunction with recent findings, we propose here a new perspective, which could be applied alongside advancing technologies, to use auditory nerve (AN) stimulation to modulate immune responses in hearing health disorders and following surgeries for auditory implants. In this article we will: (1) review the mechanisms of inflammation in the auditory system in relation to various forms of hearing loss, (2) explore nerve stimulation to reduce inflammation throughout the body and how similar neural-immune circuits likely exist in the auditory system (3) summarize current methods for stimulating the auditory system, particularly the AN, and (4) propose future directions to use bioelectronic medicine to ameliorate harmful immune responses in the inner ear and auditory brainstem to treat refractory conditions. We will illustrate how current knowledge from bioelectronic medicine can be applied to AN stimulation to resolve inflammation associated with implantation and disease. Further, we suggest the necessary steps to get discoveries in this emerging field from bench to bedside. Our vision is a future for AN stimulation that includes additional protocols as well as advances in devices to target and engage neural-immune circuitry for therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J. Seicol
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Zixu Guo
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Katy Garrity
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Ruili Xie
- Department of Otolaryngology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Krone LB, Fehér KD, Rivero T, Omlin X. Brain stimulation techniques as novel treatment options for insomnia: A systematic review. J Sleep Res 2023; 32:e13927. [PMID: 37202368 PMCID: PMC10909439 DOI: 10.1111/jsr.13927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Despite the success of cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia and recent advances in pharmacotherapy, many patients with insomnia do not sufficiently respond to available treatments. This systematic review aims to present the state of science regarding the use of brain stimulation approaches in treating insomnia. To this end, we searched MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO from inception to 24 March 2023. We evaluated studies that compared conditions of active stimulation with a control condition or group. Outcome measures included standardized insomnia questionnaires and/or polysomnography in adults with a clinical diagnosis of insomnia. Our search identified 17 controlled trials that met inclusion criteria, and assessed a total of 967 participants using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, transcranial electric stimulation, transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation or forehead cooling. No trials using other techniques such as deep brain stimulation, vestibular stimulation or auditory stimulation met the inclusion criteria. While several studies report improvements of subjective and objective sleep parameters for different repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and transcranial electric stimulation protocols, important methodological limitations and risk of bias limit their interpretability. A forehead cooling study found no significant group differences in the primary endpoints, but better sleep initiation in the active condition. Two transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation trials found no superiority of active stimulation for most outcome measures. Although modulating sleep through brain stimulation appears feasible, gaps in the prevailing models of sleep physiology and insomnia pathophysiology remain to be filled. Optimized stimulation protocols and proof of superiority over reliable sham conditions are indispensable before brain stimulation becomes a viable treatment option for insomnia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas B. Krone
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and PsychotherapyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Centre for Experimental NeurologyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Department of Physiology Anatomy and Genetics, Sir Jules Thorn Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience InstituteUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- The Kavli Institute for Nanoscience DiscoveryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Kristoffer D. Fehér
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and PsychotherapyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Geneva University Hospitals (HUG), Division of Psychiatric SpecialtiesUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
| | - Tania Rivero
- Medical LibraryUniversity Library of Bern, University of BernBernSwitzerland
| | - Ximena Omlin
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and PsychotherapyUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Geneva University Hospitals (HUG), Division of Psychiatric SpecialtiesUniversity of GenevaGenevaSwitzerland
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Zhang F, Zhang X, Peng Q, Tang L. Electroacupuncture of the cymba concha alleviates p-chlorophenylalanine-induced insomnia in mice. Acupunct Med 2023; 41:345-353. [PMID: 37081732 DOI: 10.1177/09645284231160193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Insomnia is the most common sleep disorder and is often comorbid with mental and physical diseases. The present study was designed to investigate the hypnotic effect of electroacupuncture (EA) of the cymba concha to stimulate the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN). METHODS Mice were intraperitoneally injected with p-chlorophenylalanine (PCPA, 300 mg/kg·d) for 2 days to induce insomnia and subsequently received EA or manual acupuncture (MA) of the cymba concha for 30 min once daily for 5 consecutive days, or no treatment. The phenobarbital-induced sleep test was used to analyze the hypnotic effects and the open field test was used to analyze the locomotor activities and anxiolytic effects of EA/MA of the cymba concha. In addition, the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate (Glu) in the hypothalamus and peripheral blood were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS PCPA injection significantly decreased sleep duration, increased sleep latency and induced anxiety-like behaviors in mice. In PCPA-insulted mice, EA of the cymba concha improved the sleep disturbance by significantly prolonging sleep duration, while no change in sleep latency was observed. Moreover, EA of the cymba concha improved PCPA-induced anxiety-like behaviors without decreasing locomotor activities in the open field test. EA of the cymba concha increased the level of GABA in the hypothalamus and peripheral blood, while Glu concentrations remained unchanged. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that EA of the region innervated by the ABVN upregulates GABA levels in the hypothalamus and ameliorates the symptoms of insomnia and anxiety, suggesting that EA of the cymba concha might have potential value as an intervention for insomnia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenyan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoming Zhang
- College of Acupuncture and Orthopedics, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
- Sub-Health Institute, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi Peng
- University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling Tang
- Department of Neurology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Bonaz B. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation: the future of inflammatory bowel disease treatment? Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:26. [PMID: 38017496 PMCID: PMC10685668 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00129-y] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve regulates inflammation and cytokine release through the inflammatory reflex. Recent pilot clinical trials using implantable bioelectronic devices have demonstrated the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) in adult patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) as an alternative to drug treatments. However, the use of non-invasive VNS should be of interest in adults with IBD and even more in pediatric IBD. In this issue of Bioelectronic Medicine, Sahn et al. report that non-invasive transcutaneous auricular VNS attenuated signs and symptoms in a pediatric cohort with mild to moderate IBD thus opening new therapeutic avenues in the management of pediatric but also adult IBD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Bonaz
- Service d'Hépato-Gastroentérologie, Grenoble Institut Neurosciences, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
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Themkumkwun S, Vorakulpipat C, Boonsiriseth K. Donor site morbidities of concha cartilage harvesting using a retroauricular approach for cleft rhinoplasty: retrospective study. J Korean Assoc Oral Maxillofac Surg 2023; 49:270-277. [PMID: 37907342 PMCID: PMC10618666 DOI: 10.5125/jkaoms.2023.49.5.270] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Concha cartilage is recommended for correction of cleft nasal deformities. Morbidities at the donor site have been reported in esthetic rhinoplasty cases. Reports on cleft patients are limited, so we investigated the complications of concha cartilage harvesting using the retroauricular approach in cleft rhinoplasty and their management. Materials and Methods This was a retrospective review of the charts of 63 patients with cleft deformities who underwent septorhinoplasty with concha cartilage. All cases were harvested using a retroauricular approach. Data on patient demographics, surgery type, amount of cartilage harvested, and complications were gathered. Results Sixty-three patients were enrolled (21 males and 42 females). The mean age of patients was 20.2±5.9 years. Complications were observed in 6 cases (9.5%) and included delayed wound healing (4.8%), prolonged postoperative pain (1.6%), postoperative paresthesia (1.6%), and prominauris (1.6%). Conclusion The rate of complications associated with concha cartilage harvesting using a retroauricular approach is low. The use of meticulous surgical techniques, especially hemostasis control and adequate wound dressing, is key to minimizing postoperative complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukkarn Themkumkwun
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chakorn Vorakulpipat
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kiatanant Boonsiriseth
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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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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Dudzińska E, Grabrucker AM, Kwiatkowski P, Sitarz R, Sienkiewicz M. The Importance of Visceral Hypersensitivity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome-Plant Metabolites in IBS Treatment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1405. [PMID: 37895876 PMCID: PMC10609912 DOI: 10.3390/ph16101405] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The visceral stimuli from the digestive tract are transmitted via afferent nerves through the spinal cord to the brain, where they are felt as pain. The overreaction observed in the brain of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients may be due to increased peripheral sensitivity to stimuli from the gastrointestinal tract. Although the exact pathway is uncertain, attenuation of visceral hypersensitivity is still of interest in treating IBS. It has been shown that stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system while inhibiting the vagus nerve (VN). In addition, stress factors lead to dysbiosis and chronic low-grade inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, which can lead to lower gastrointestinal visceral hypersensitivity. Therefore, an important goal in the treatment of IBS is the normalization of the intestinal microflora. An interesting option seems to be nutraceuticals, including Terminalia chebula, which has antibacterial and antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Additionally, short-term transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation can reduce the stress-induced increase in intestinal permeability, thereby reducing inflammation. The conducted studies also indicate a relationship between the stimulation of the vagus nerve (VN) and the activation of neuromodulatory networks in the central nervous system. Therefore, it seems reasonable to conclude that a two-way action through stimulating the VN and using nutraceuticals may become an effective therapy in treating IBS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Dudzińska
- Department of Dietetics and Nutrition Education, Medical University of Lublin, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Andreas M. Grabrucker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, V94 PH61 Limerick, Ireland;
- Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, V94 PH61 Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute (HRI), University of Limerick, V94 PH61 Limerick, Ireland
| | - Paweł Kwiatkowski
- Department of Diagnostic Immunology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Al. Powstancow Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Robert Sitarz
- Department of Human Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland;
- First Department of Surgical Oncology, St. John’s Cancer Center, 20-090 Lublin, Poland
| | - Monika Sienkiewicz
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Microbiological Diagnostic, Medical University of Lodz, Muszynskiego 1, 90-151 Lodz, Poland;
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Baig SS, Kamarova M, Bell SM, Ali AN, Su L, Dimairo M, Dawson J, Redgrave JN, Majid A. tVNS in Stroke: A Narrative Review on the Current State and the Future. Stroke 2023; 54:2676-2687. [PMID: 37646161 DOI: 10.1161/strokeaha.123.043414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of disability and there is a paucity of therapeutic strategies that promote functional recovery after stroke. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) has shown promising evidence as a tool to reduce infarct size in animal models of hyperacute stroke. In chronic stroke, tVNS paired with limb movements has been shown to enhance neurological recovery. In this review, we summarize the current evidence for tVNS in preclinical models and clinical trials in humans. We highlight the mechanistic pathways involved in the beneficial effects of tVNS. We critically evaluate the current gaps in knowledge and recommend the key areas of research required to translate tVNS into clinical practice in acute and chronic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheharyar S Baig
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Marharyta Kamarova
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Simon M Bell
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Ali N Ali
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Li Su
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Munya Dimairo
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (M.D.)
| | - Jesse Dawson
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, United Kingdom (J.D.)
| | - Jessica N Redgrave
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
| | - Arshad Majid
- Department of Neuroscience, Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, United Kingdom (S.S.B., M.K., S.M.B., A.N.A., L.S., J.N.R., A.M.)
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Canikli Adıgüzel S, Akyurt D, Ültan Özgen G, Bahadır Altun H, Çakır A, Süren M, Okan İ. The Effect of Cold Application to the Lateral Neck Area on Peripheral Vascular Access Pain: A Randomised Controlled Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6273. [PMID: 37834917 PMCID: PMC10573386 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12196273] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Various types of vagus nerve stimulation are employed in the treatment of a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, epilepsy, headache, tinnitus, atrial fibrillation, schizophrenia, and musculoskeletal pain. The objective of this study was to apply vagal stimulation to the neck area using standardised cold, and then analyse the level of vascular access discomfort experienced by individuals who underwent venous cannulation from the dorsal side of the hand prior to anaesthesia. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 180 patients, aged 18-75, who were scheduled to undergo elective surgery, were categorised into three distinct groups: the Sham group (Group S), the Control group (Group K), and the Cold group (Group M), with each group consisting of 60 individuals. Bilateral cold application to the lateral side of the neck was performed prior to the commencement of vascular access in Group M patients, followed by the subsequent opening of vascular access. The alterations in heart rate among patients was assessed subsequent to the application of cold and following the establishment of vascular access. The participants were instructed to assess their level of vascular access pain on a numerical pain scale (NRS) ranging from 0 to 10. RESULTS A statistically significant difference (p = 0.035) was seen when comparing the pain ratings of patients during vascular access. The study revealed that the NRS values exhibited a statistically significant decrease in Group M compared to both Group K (p = 0.038) and Group S (p = 0.048). Group M had a higher prevalence of individuals experiencing mild pain compared to other groups, and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.029). In Group M, the average heart rate following vagal stimulation exhibited a statistically significant decrease compared to the average heart rate observed at the beginning of the study (p < 0.05). Upon comparing the original heart rate measurements with the heart rate values following vascular access, it was observed that there was an elevation in heart rate for both Group S and Group K. Conversely, Group M exhibited a decrease in heart rate after vascular access when compared to the initial heart rate values. CONCLUSIONS In the present investigation, it was discovered that the application of cold to the neck region resulted in a drop in heart rate among the patients, which persisted throughout the process of vascular access. Furthermore, the level of pain experienced by these individuals was reduced during vascular access procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senay Canikli Adıgüzel
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - Dilan Akyurt
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - Gökçe Ültan Özgen
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - Hatice Bahadır Altun
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - Aleyna Çakır
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - Mustafa Süren
- Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun University, 55090 Samsun, Turkey; (D.A.); (G.Ü.Ö.); (H.B.A.); (A.Ç.); (M.S.)
| | - İsmail Okan
- İstanbul Medeniyet University, 34720 Istanbul, Turkey;
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62
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Booth LC, Saseetharan B, May CN, Yao ST. Selective efferent vagal stimulation in heart failure. Exp Physiol 2023. [PMID: 37755233 DOI: 10.1113/ep090866] [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: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Patients diagnosed with heart failure have high rates of mortality and morbidity. Based on promising preclinical studies, vagal nerve stimulation has been trialled in these patients using whole nerve electrical stimulation, but the results have been mixed. This is, at least in part, due to an inability to selectively recruit the activity of specific fibres within the vagus with whole nerve electrical stimulation, as well as not knowing which the 'therapeutic' fibres are. This symposium review focuses on a population of cardiac-projecting efferent vagal fibres with cell bodies located within the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve and a new method of selectively targeting these projections as a potential treatment in heart failure. NEW FINDINGS: What is the topic of this review? Selective efferent vagal stimulation in heart failure. What advances does it highlight? Selectively targeting a population of cardiac-projecting efferent vagal fibres with cell bodies within the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus using optogenetics slows the progression of heart failure in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsea C Booth
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Baagavi Saseetharan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Clive N May
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Song T Yao
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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63
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Ostergaard JR. Treatment of non-epileptic episodes of anxious, fearful behavior in adolescent juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (CLN3 disease). Front Neurol 2023; 14:1216861. [PMID: 37771451 PMCID: PMC10523314 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1216861] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recurrent non-epileptic episodes of frightened facial and body expression occur in more than half of post-adolescent patients with juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL, CLN3 disease). Clinically, the episodes look similar to the attacks of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity (PSH) commonly seen following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The episodes occur when the patients are exposed to separation, hear loud sounds or are otherwise bothered by discomfort and as in PSH following TBI, the attacks are difficult to prevent and/or treat. Aim and methods Based on present knowledge of triggering factors, the neural anxiety/fear circuit, its afferent and efferent pathways and documented CLN3 disease-impact on these tracks, the current study discusses a rational approach how to prevent and/or treat the attacks. Results Patients with JNCL have a disturbed somatosensory modulation leading to a reduced threshold of pain; a degeneration within the neural anxiety/fear circuit leading to an imbalance of central network inhibition and excitation pathways; and finally, an, with advancing age, increasing autonomic imbalance leading to a significant dominance of the sympathetic neural system. Discussion Theoretically, there are three points of attack how to prevent or treat the episodes: (1) increase in threshold of discomfort impact; (2) modulation of imbalance of central network inhibition and excitation, and (3) restoring the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic neural systems prompted by a parasympathetic withdrawal. As to (1) and (2), prevention should have the greatest priority. As regards (3), research of transcutaneous vagal stimulation treatment in JNCL is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- John R. Ostergaard
- Department of Child and Adolescence, Centre for Rare Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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64
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Ghosh S, Sinha JK, Ghosh S, Sharma H, Bhaskar R, Narayanan KB. A Comprehensive Review of Emerging Trends and Innovative Therapies in Epilepsy Management. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1305. [PMID: 37759906 PMCID: PMC10527076 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13091305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a complex neurological disorder affecting millions worldwide, with a substantial number of patients facing drug-resistant epilepsy. This comprehensive review explores innovative therapies for epilepsy management, focusing on their principles, clinical evidence, and potential applications. Traditional antiseizure medications (ASMs) form the cornerstone of epilepsy treatment, but their limitations necessitate alternative approaches. The review delves into cutting-edge therapies such as responsive neurostimulation (RNS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and deep brain stimulation (DBS), highlighting their mechanisms of action and promising clinical outcomes. Additionally, the potential of gene therapies and optogenetics in epilepsy research is discussed, revealing groundbreaking findings that shed light on seizure mechanisms. Insights into cannabidiol (CBD) and the ketogenic diet as adjunctive therapies further broaden the spectrum of epilepsy management. Challenges in achieving seizure control with traditional therapies, including treatment resistance and individual variability, are addressed. The importance of staying updated with emerging trends in epilepsy management is emphasized, along with the hope for improved therapeutic options. Future research directions, such as combining therapies, AI applications, and non-invasive optogenetics, hold promise for personalized and effective epilepsy treatment. As the field advances, collaboration among researchers of natural and synthetic biochemistry, clinicians from different streams and various forms of medicine, and patients will drive progress toward better seizure control and a higher quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shampa Ghosh
- GloNeuro, Sector 107, Vishwakarma Road, Noida 201301, India
- ICMR—National Institute of Nutrition, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500007, India
| | | | - Soumya Ghosh
- GloNeuro, Sector 107, Vishwakarma Road, Noida 201301, India
| | | | - Rakesh Bhaskar
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-Ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Kannan Badri Narayanan
- School of Chemical Engineering, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-Ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute of Cell Culture, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-Ro, Gyeongsan, Gyeongbuk 38541, Republic of Korea
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65
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Wienke C, Grueschow M, Haghikia A, Zaehle T. Phasic, Event-Related Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Modifies Behavioral, Pupillary, and Low-Frequency Oscillatory Power Responses. J Neurosci 2023; 43:6306-6319. [PMID: 37591736 PMCID: PMC10490471 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0452-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has been proposed to activate the locus ceruleus-noradrenaline (LC-NA) system. However, previous studies failed to find consistent modulatory effects of taVNS on LC-NA biomarkers. Previous studies suggest that phasic taVNS may be capable of modulating LC-NA biomarkers such as pupil dilation and alpha oscillations. However, it is unclear whether these effects extend beyond pure sensory vagal nerve responses. Critically, the potential of the pupillary light reflex as an additional taVNS biomarker has not been explored so far. Here, we applied phasic active and sham taVNS in 29 subjects (16 female, 13 male) while they performed an emotional Stroop task (EST) and a passive pupil light reflex task (PLRT). We recorded pupil size and brain activity dynamics using a combined Magnetoencephalography (MEG) and pupillometry design. Our results show that phasic taVNS significantly increased pupil dilation and performance during the EST. During the PLRT, active taVNS reduced and delayed pupil constriction. In the MEG, taVNS increased frontal-midline theta and alpha power during the EST, whereas occipital alpha power was reduced during both the EST and PLRT. Our findings provide evidence that phasic taVNS systematically modulates behavioral, pupillary, and electrophysiological parameters of LC-NA activity during cognitive processing. Moreover, we demonstrate for the first time that the pupillary light reflex can be used as a simple and effective proxy of taVNS efficacy. These findings have important implications for the development of noninvasive neuromodulation interventions for various cognitive and clinical applications.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT taVNS has gained increasing attention as a noninvasive neuromodulation technique and is widely used in clinical and nonclinical research. Nevertheless, the exact mechanism of action of taVNS is not yet fully understood. By assessing physiology and behavior in a response conflict task in healthy humans, we demonstrate the first successful application of a phasic, noninvasive vagus nerve stimulation to improve cognitive control and to systematically modulate pupillary and electrophysiological markers of the noradrenergic system. Understanding the mechanisms of action of taVNS could optimize future clinical applications and lead to better treatments for mental disorders associated with noradrenergic dysfunction. In addition, we present a new taVNS-sensitive pupillary measure representing an easy-to-use biomarker for future taVNS studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcus Grueschow
- Zurich Center for Neuroeconomics, Departement of Economics, University of Zurich, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aiden Haghikia
- Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Deusches Zentrum für Neurodegenrative Erkrankungen, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, 39120, Germany
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, 39120, Germany
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66
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Krohn F, Lancini E, Ludwig M, Leiman M, Guruprasath G, Haag L, Panczyszyn J, Düzel E, Hämmerer D, Betts M. Noradrenergic neuromodulation in ageing and disease. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 152:105311. [PMID: 37437752 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105311] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) is a small brainstem structure located in the lower pons and is the main source of noradrenaline (NA) in the brain. Via its phasic and tonic firing, it modulates cognition and autonomic functions and is involved in the brain's immune response. The extent of degeneration to the LC in healthy ageing remains unclear, however, noradrenergic dysfunction may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Despite their differences in progression at later disease stages, the early involvement of the LC may lead to comparable behavioural symptoms such as preclinical sleep problems and neuropsychiatric symptoms as a result of AD and PD pathology. In this review, we draw attention to the mechanisms that underlie LC degeneration in ageing, AD and PD. We aim to motivate future research to investigate how early degeneration of the noradrenergic system may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AD and PD which may also be relevant to other neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Krohn
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - E Lancini
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - M Ludwig
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - M Leiman
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - G Guruprasath
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - L Haag
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - J Panczyszyn
- Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - E Düzel
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London UK-WC1E 6BT, UK; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - D Hämmerer
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London UK-WC1E 6BT, UK; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - M Betts
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research (IKND), Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany; CBBS Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, University of Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
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67
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Abdullahi A, Wong TWL, Ng SSM. Putative role of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation in cancer pathology and immunotherapy: Can this be a hidden treasure, especially for the elderly? Cancer Med 2023; 12:19081-19090. [PMID: 37587897 PMCID: PMC10557911 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6466] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is globally a disease of significant public health concern owing to its prevalence, and association with morbidity and mortality. Thus, cost-effective treatments for cancer are important to help reduce its significant morbidity and mortality. However, the current therapeutic options for cancer such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery may produce serious adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and peripheral neuropathy, especially in the long term. In addition, these therapeutic options may not be well tolerated by the elderly especially those who are frail. The current article is aimed at discussing an alternative therapeutic option, non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and the roles it plays in cancer pathology and immunotherapy. The VNS does this by reducing oxidative stress via silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1); inhibiting inflammation via both hypothalamic-pituitary-axis (HPA) and the release of corticosteroid from the adrenal gland, and cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP), and increasing vagal activity which helps in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and metabolism, and increase chance of survival. Furthermore, it helps with reducing complications due to cancer or its treatments such as postoperative ileus and severity of peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapy, and improves cancer-related fatigue, lymphopenia, and quality of life. These suggest that the importance of non-invasive VNS in cancer pathology and immunotherapy cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, considering the safety of non-invasive VNS and its cost-effectiveness, it is a therapeutic option worth trying for these patients, especially in combination with other therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auwal Abdullahi
- Department of Rehabilitation SciencesThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong Special Administrative RegionChina
| | - Thomson W. L. Wong
- Department of Rehabilitation SciencesThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong Special Administrative RegionChina
| | - Shamay S. M. Ng
- Department of Rehabilitation SciencesThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong Special Administrative RegionChina
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68
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Veiz E, Kieslich SK, Czesnik D, Herrmann-Lingen C, Meyer T, Staab J. A randomized vagus nerve stimulation study demonstrates that serum aldosterone levels decrease with age in women, but not in men. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14197. [PMID: 37648715 PMCID: PMC10469189 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40113-9] [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: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In this randomized, sham-controlled study, we explored the effects of acute transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) on serum aldosterone in 20 younger (21-26 years) and 19 older (40-70 years) healthy participants. Blood samples were collected on two different days before and after a 20-min application of active tVNS at the inner tragus or sham stimulation of the earlobe. Irrespective of the stimulation mode, aldosterone levels decreased from pre- to post-stimulation in both the young (active: β = - 1.610 (- 2.855, - 0.365), p = 0.022; sham: β = - 0.857 (- 2.102, 0.388), p = 0.257) and the old cohort (active: β = - 1.969 (- 3.234, - 0.703), p = 0.005; sham: β = - 1.334 (- 2.600, - 0.069), p = 0.063). Although this decline was significant during active tVNS, the difference in estimated β-coefficients between active and sham stimulation was not statistically significant in either cohort. Nevertheless, aldosterone concentrations showed a significant interaction effect between sex and age (p = 0.001). Among all study participants, younger women (23.3 ± 1.6 years) had the highest mineralocorticoid levels (pre active: 172.1 ± 102.0 pg/ml, pre sham: 214.3 ± 82.3 pg/ml), whereas the lowest were observed in older females (59.4 ± 9.4 years) (pre active: 104.9 ± 85.8 pg/ml, pre sham: 81.1 ± 53.8 pg/ml). This post hoc analysis did not suggest that active auricular tVNS reduces serum aldosterone levels compared to sham stimulation in healthy subjects. However, serum aldosterone levels differed among subjects depending on their age and sex, irrespective of tVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Veiz
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susann-Kristin Kieslich
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dirk Czesnik
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Herrmann-Lingen
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Meyer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany.
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany.
| | - Julia Staab
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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69
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Mercante B, Enrico P, Deriu F. Cognitive Functions following Trigeminal Neuromodulation. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2392. [PMID: 37760833 PMCID: PMC10525298 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092392] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Vast scientific effort in recent years have been focused on the search for effective and safe treatments for cognitive decline. In this regard, non-invasive neuromodulation has gained increasing attention for its reported effectiveness in promoting the recovery of multiple cognitive domains after central nervous system damage. In this short review, we discuss the available evidence supporting a possible cognitive effect of trigeminal nerve stimulation (TNS). In particular, we ask that, while TNS has been widely and successfully used in the treatment of various neuropsychiatric conditions, as far as research in the cognitive field is concerned, where does TNS stand? The trigeminal nerve is the largest cranial nerve, conveying the sensory information from the face to the trigeminal sensory nuclei, and from there to the thalamus and up to the somatosensory cortex. On these bases, a bottom-up mechanism has been proposed, positing that TNS-induced modulation of the brainstem noradrenergic system may affect the function of the brain networks involved in cognition. Nevertheless, despite the promising theories, to date, the use of TNS for cognitive empowering and/or cognitive decline treatment has several challenges ahead of it, mainly due to little uniformity of the stimulation protocols. However, as the field continues to grow, standardization of practice will allow for data comparisons across studies, leading to optimized protocols targeting specific brain circuitries, which may, in turn, influence cognition in a designed manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beniamina Mercante
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (B.M.); (P.E.)
| | - Paolo Enrico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (B.M.); (P.E.)
| | - Franca Deriu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (B.M.); (P.E.)
- AOU Sassari, Unit of Endocrinology, Nutritional and Metabolic Disorders, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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70
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Sommer A, Fischer R, Borges U, Laborde S, Achtzehn S, Liepelt R. The effect of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on cognitive control in multitasking. Neuropsychologia 2023; 187:108614. [PMID: 37295553 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2023.108614] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Current research in brain stimulation suggests transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) as a promising tool to modulate cognitive functions in healthy populations, such as attention, memory, and executive functions. Empirical evidence in single-task contexts, suggests that taVNS promotes holistic task processing, which strengthens the integration of multiple stimulus features in task processing. However, it is unclear how taVNS might affect performance in multitasking, where the integration of multiple stimuli leads to an overlap in stimulus response translation processes, increasing the risk of between-task interference (crosstalk). In a single-blinded, sham-controlled, within-subject design, participants underwent taVNS while performing a dual task. To assess the effects of taVNS, behavioral (reaction times), physiological (heart rate variability, salivary alpha-amylase), and subjective psychological variables (e.g., arousal) were recorded over three cognitive test blocks. Our results revealed no overall significant effect of taVNS on physiological and subjective psychological variables. However, the results showed a significant increase in between-task interference under taVNS in the first test block, but not in the subsequent test blocks. Our findings therefore suggest that taVNS increased integrative processing of both tasks early during active stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Sommer
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany; Department of Exercise Physiology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Rico Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Uirassu Borges
- Department of Health and Social Psychology, Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Sylvain Laborde
- Department of Performance Psychology, Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany; Normandie Université, UFR STAPS, EA 4260 CESAMS, Caen, France
| | - Silvia Achtzehn
- Department of Exercise Physiology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Roman Liepelt
- Department of General Psychology: Judgment, Decision Making, Action, Faculty of Psychology, University of Hagen (FernUniversität in Hagen), Hagen, Germany
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71
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Seifert O, Baerwald C. [Stimulation of the vagus nerve as a therapeutic principle. German Version]. Z Rheumatol 2023:10.1007/s00393-023-01390-x. [PMID: 37490129 DOI: 10.1007/s00393-023-01390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Modulation of the parasympathetic tone leads to extensive physiological reactions at several levels, including the decreased production of proinflammatory cytokines. Many studies have demonstrated that chronic inflammatory diseases are associated with reduced parasympathetic and increased sympathetic activities. Moreover, it was demonstrated that a low parasympathetic and a high sympathetic activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) predicts a poor therapeutic response to anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) treatment compared to RA patients with a more balanced autonomic nervous system. The autonomic equilibrium could be restored by electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve. Considering the patients who do not sufficiently respond to the available drugs, patients for whom the effectiveness of the drugs wanes over time, or have drug-related adverse events, a nonpharmacological approach such as bioelectronics might be a useful supplement as an instrument in the successful extension of the therapeutic armamentarium for rheumatic diseases; however, there is a great need for further studies and the development of novel therapeutic strategies in the field of neuroimmunology.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Seifert
- MK II Rheumatologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland.
| | - C Baerwald
- MK II Rheumatologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig, Liebigstr. 20, 04103, Leipzig, Deutschland
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72
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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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Naparstek S, Yeh AK, Mills-Finnerty C. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) applications in cognitive aging: a review and commentary. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1145207. [PMID: 37496757 PMCID: PMC10366452 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1145207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiating healthy from pathological aging trajectories is extremely timely, as the global population faces an inversion where older adults will soon outnumber younger 5:1. Many cognitive functions (e.g., memory, executive functions, and processing speed) decline with age, a process that can begin as early as midlife, and which predicts subsequent diagnosis with dementia. Although dementia is a devastating and costly diagnosis, there remains limited evidence for medications, therapies, and devices that improve cognition or attenuate the transition into dementia. There is an urgent need to intervene early in neurodegenerative processes leading to dementia (e.g., depression and mild cognitive impairment). In this targeted review and commentary, we highlight transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) as a neurostimulation method with unique opportunities for applications in diseases of aging, reviewing recent literature, feasibility of use with remote data collection methods/telehealth, as well as limitations and conflicts in the literature. In particular, small sample sizes, uneven age distributions of participants, lack of standardized protocols, and oversampling of non-representative groups (e.g., older adults with no comorbid diagnoses) limit our understanding of the potential of this method. We offer recommendations for how to improve representativeness, statistical power, and generalizability of tVNS research by integrating remote data collection techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Naparstek
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Ashley K. Yeh
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Colleen Mills-Finnerty
- VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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Fang YT, Lin YT, Tseng WL, Tseng P, Hua GL, Chao YJ, Wu YJ. Neuroimmunomodulation of vagus nerve stimulation and the therapeutic implications. Front Aging Neurosci 2023; 15:1173987. [PMID: 37484689 PMCID: PMC10358778 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2023.1173987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a technology that provides electrical stimulation to the cervical vagus nerve and can be applied in the treatment of a wide variety of neuropsychiatric and systemic diseases. VNS exerts its effect by stimulating vagal afferent and efferent fibers, which project upward to the brainstem nuclei and the relayed circuits and downward to the internal organs to influence the autonomic, neuroendocrine, and neuroimmunology systems. The neuroimmunomodulation effect of VNS is mediated through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that regulates immune cells and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines. Traditional and non-invasive VNS have Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indications for patients with drug-refractory epilepsy, treatment-refractory major depressive disorders, and headaches. The number of clinical trials and translational studies that explore the therapeutic potentials and mechanisms of VNS is increasing. In this review, we first introduced the anatomical and physiological bases of the vagus nerve and the immunomodulating functions of VNS. We covered studies that investigated the mechanisms of VNS and its therapeutic implications for a spectrum of brain disorders and systemic diseases in the context of neuroimmunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Fang
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ye-Ting Lin
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Wu-Lung Tseng
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Philip Tseng
- Cross College Elite Program, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Research Center for Mind, Brain and Learning, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Gia-Linh Hua
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Jui Chao
- Department of Surgery, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jen Wu
- Department of Neurology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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75
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Rufener KS, Wienke C, Salanje A, Haghikia A, Zaehle T. Effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation paired with tones on electrophysiological markers of auditory perception. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:982-989. [PMID: 37336282 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.06.006] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has been introduced as a non-invasive alternative to invasive vagus nerve stimulation (iVNS). While iVNS paired with tones has been highlighted as a potential effective therapy for the treatment of auditory disorders such as tinnitus, there is still scarce data available confirming the efficacy of non-invasive taVNS. Here, we assessed the effect of taVNS paired with acoustic stimuli on sensory-related electrophysiological responses. METHODS A total of 22 healthy participants were investigated with a taVNS tone-pairing paradigm using a within-subjects design. In a single session pure tones paired with either active taVNS or sham taVNS were repeatedly presented. Novel tones without electrical stimulation served as control condition. Auditory event related potentials and auditory cortex oscillations were compared before and after the tone pairing procedure between stimulation conditions. RESULTS From pre to post pairing, we observed a decrease in the N1 amplitude and in theta power to tones paired with sham taVNS while these electrophysiological measures remained stable for tones paired with active taVNS a pattern mirroring auditory sensory processing of novel, unpaired control tones. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the efficacy of a short-term application of non-invasive taVNS to modulate auditory processing in healthy individuals and, thereby, have potential implications for interventions in auditory processing deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina S Rufener
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Christian Wienke
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alena Salanje
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Aiden Haghikia
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tino Zaehle
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany; Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany
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76
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St Pierre MA, Shinohara M. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation at nonspecific timings during training can compromise motor adaptation in healthy humans. J Neurophysiol 2023; 130:212-223. [PMID: 37377193 PMCID: PMC10393334 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00447.2022] [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: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Adding afferent vagus nerve stimulation to motor training via implanted electrodes can modify neuromotor adaptation depending on the stimulation timing. This study aimed to understand neuromotor adaptations when transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is applied at nonspecific timings during motor skill training in healthy humans. Twenty-four healthy young adults performed visuomotor training to match a complex force trajectory pattern with the index and little finger abduction forces concurrently. Participants were assigned to the tVNS group receiving tVNS at the tragus or the sham group receiving sham stimulation to the earlobe. The corresponding stimulations were applied at nonspecific timings throughout the training trials. Visuomotor tests were performed without tVNS or sham stimulation before and after training sessions across days. The reduction in the root mean square error (RMSE) against the trained force trajectory was attenuated in the tVNS group compared with the sham group, while its in-session reduction was not different between groups. The reduction of RMSE against an untrained trajectory pattern was not different between groups. No training effect was observed in corticospinal excitability or GABA-mediated intracortical inhibition. These findings suggest that adding tVNS at nonspecific timings during motor skill training can compromise motor adaptation but not transfer in healthy humans.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Adding vagus nerve stimulation via implanted electrodes during motor training can facilitate motor recovery in disabled animals and humans. No study examined the effect of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) during training on neuromotor adaptation in healthy humans. We have found that adding tVNS at nonspecific timings during motor skill training can compromise motor adaptation but not transfer in healthy humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Adrien St Pierre
- Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Minoru Shinohara
- Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
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77
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Konjusha A, Yu S, Mückschel M, Colzato L, Ziemssen T, Beste C. Auricular Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Specifically Enhances Working Memory Gate Closing Mechanism: A System Neurophysiological Study. J Neurosci 2023; 43:4709-4724. [PMID: 37221097 PMCID: PMC10286950 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2004-22.2023] [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: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Everyday tasks and goal-directed behavior involve the maintenance and continuous updating of information in working memory (WM). WM gating reflects switches between these two core states. Neurobiological considerations suggest that the catecholaminergic and the GABAergic are likely involved in these dynamics. Both of these neurotransmitter systems likely underlie the effects to auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (atVNS). We examine the effects of atVNS on WM gating dynamics and their underlying neurophysiological and neurobiological processes in a randomized crossover study design in healthy humans of both sexes. We show that atVNS specifically modulates WM gate closing and thus specifically modulates neural mechanisms enabling the maintenance of information in WM. WM gate opening processes were not affected. atVNS modulates WM gate closing processes through the modulation of EEG alpha band activity. This was the case for clusters of activity in the EEG signal referring to stimulus information, motor response information, and fractions of information carrying stimulus-response mapping rules during WM gate closing. EEG-beamforming shows that modulations of activity in fronto-polar, orbital, and inferior parietal regions are associated with these effects. The data suggest that these effects are not because of modulations of the catecholaminergic (noradrenaline) system as indicated by lack of modulatory effects in pupil diameter dynamics, in the inter-relation of EEG and pupil diameter dynamics and saliva markers of noradrenaline activity. Considering other findings, it appears that a central effect of atVNS during cognitive processing refers to the stabilization of information in neural circuits, putatively mediated via the GABAergic system.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Goal-directed behavior depends on how well information in short-term memory can be flexibly updated but also on how well it can be shielded from distraction. These two functions were guarded by a working memory gate. We show how an increasingly popular brain stimulation techniques specifically enhances the ability to close the working memory gate to shield information from distraction. We show what physiological and anatomic aspects underlie these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anyla Konjusha
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Shijing Yu
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Moritz Mückschel
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Lorenza Colzato
- Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
| | - Tjalf Ziemssen
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, MS Centre, TU Dresden, Dresden 01307, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden 01307, Germany
- Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
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78
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Hachul DT. Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Heart Failure: Critical Analysis and Future Perspectives. Arq Bras Cardiol 2023; 120:e20230298. [PMID: 37341251 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20230298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Tessariol Hachul
- Instituto do Coração do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo , São Paulo , SP - Brasil
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79
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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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80
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Park J, Oh JY, Park HJ. Potential role of acupuncture in the treatment of Parkinson's disease: A narrative review. Integr Med Res 2023; 12:100954. [PMID: 37275921 PMCID: PMC10238843 DOI: 10.1016/j.imr.2023.100954] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of Parkinson's disease (PD) has grown rapidly compared to that of other neurological disorders. Acupuncture has been used to address the complex symptoms of PD. Recently, similarities in the mechanisms of action between acupuncture and neuromodulation have received considerable attention. This review aims to summarize the evidence regarding these similarities to suggest potential role of acupuncture in the treatment of PD. Methods The literature from two electronic databases, PubMed and Google Scholar, was searched using the search terms 'Acupuncture', 'Parkinson's disease', 'Vagus nerve stimulation', and 'Brain functional connectivity'. We then explored the evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture in PD and evaluated the evidence for similarities in the mechanisms of action between acupuncture and neuromodulation. Results Data suggests that acupuncture treatment is effective for PD symptoms by modulating inflammation and brain functional connectivity (BFC). These acupuncture effects have been shown to be similar to neuromodulation in controlling inflammation and BFC. Based on the shared mechanisms of action, potential acupuncture mechanisms that may ameliorate a wide range of PD symptoms include but are not limited to (1) vagal activation of the anti-inflammatory pathway and (2) BFC enhancement. Conclusion The development of acupuncture strategies based on shared mechanisms with neuromodulation will provide new treatment options for patients with PD as personalized neuromodulating therapies. Further studies are needed to gather scientific evidence for optimizing parameters in PD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaeyoung Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ju-Young Oh
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center (AMSRC), Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hi-Joon Park
- College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Acupuncture and Meridian Science Research Center (AMSRC), Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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81
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Messina R, Christensen RH, Cetta I, Ashina M, Filippi M. Imaging the brain and vascular reactions to headache treatments: a systematic review. J Headache Pain 2023; 24:58. [PMID: 37221469 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-023-01590-5] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroimaging studies have made an important contribution to our understanding of headache pathophysiology. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview and critical appraisal of mechanisms of actions of headache treatments and potential biomarkers of treatment response disclosed by imaging studies. MAIN BODY We performed a systematic literature search on PubMed and Embase databases for imaging studies investigating central and vascular effects of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments used to abort and prevent headache attacks. Sixty-three studies were included in the final qualitative analysis. Of these, 54 investigated migraine patients, 4 cluster headache patients and 5 patients with medication overuse headache. Most studies used functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (n = 33) or molecular imaging (n = 14). Eleven studies employed structural MRI and a few used arterial spin labeling (n = 3), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (n = 3) or magnetic resonance angiography (n = 2). Different imaging modalities were combined in eight studies. Despite of the variety of imaging approaches and results, some findings were consistent. This systematic review suggests that triptans may cross the blood-brain barrier to some extent, though perhaps not sufficiently to alter the intracranial cerebral blood flow. Acupuncture in migraine, neuromodulation in migraine and cluster headache patients, and medication withdrawal in patients with medication overuse headache could promote headache improvement by reverting headache-affected pain processing brain areas. Yet, there is currently no clear evidence for where each treatment acts, and no firm imaging predictors of efficacy. This is mainly due to a scarcity of studies and heterogeneous treatment schemes, study designs, subjects, and imaging techniques. In addition, most studies used small sample sizes and inadequate statistical approaches, which precludes generalizable conclusions. CONCLUSION Several aspects of headache treatments remain to be elucidated using imaging approaches, such as how pharmacological preventive therapies work, whether treatment-related brain changes may influence therapy effectiveness, and imaging biomarkers of clinical response. In the future, well-designed studies with homogeneous study populations, adequate sample sizes and statistical approaches are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Messina
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience and Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy.
| | - R H Christensen
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - I Cetta
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience and Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
| | - M Ashina
- Danish Headache Center, Department of Neurology, Rigshospitalet Glostrup, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - M Filippi
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience and Neurology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina, 60, 20132, Milan, Italy
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82
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Tan C, Qiao M, Ma Y, Luo Y, Fang J, Yang Y. The efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in the treatment of depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Affect Disord 2023:S0165-0327(23)00685-7. [PMID: 37230264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.05.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is used for treating depression but the efficacy and safety have not been well assessed. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of taVNS in depression. METHODS The retrieval databases included English databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Library and PsycINFO, and Chinese databases of CNKI, Wanfang, VIP and Sino Med, and the retrieval period was from their inception to November 10, 2022. The clinical trial registers (ClinicalTrials.gov and Chinese Clinical Trial Registry) were also searched. Standardized mean difference and the risk ratio were used as the effect indicator and the effect size was represented by the 95 % confidence interval. Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials and the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system were used to assess the risk of bias and quality of evidence respectively. RESULTS Totally, 12 studies of 838 participants were included. taVNS could significantly improve depression and reduce Hamilton Depression Scale scores. Low to very low evidence showed that taVNS had higher response rates than sham-taVMS and comparable response rates compared to antidepressants (ATD) and that taVNS combined with ATD had comparable efficacy to ATD with fewer side effects. LIMITATIONS The number of studies in subgroups was small and the evidence quality was low to very low. CONCLUSIONS taVNS is an effective and safe method for alleviating depression scores and had a comparable response rate to ATD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoren Tan
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, 100700 Beijing, China
| | - Meng Qiao
- Institute of Basic Research in Clinical Medicine, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100700 Beijing, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Jiliang Fang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, 100053 Beijing, China
| | - Yongsheng Yang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Chinese Medical Science, 100700 Beijing, China.
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83
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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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84
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Bora G, Atkinson SN, Pan A, Sood M, Salzman N, Karrento K. Impact of auricular percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation on gut microbiome in adolescents with irritable bowel syndrome: A pilot study. J Dig Dis 2023; 24:348-358. [PMID: 37448237 DOI: 10.1111/1751-2980.13203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Percutaneous electrical nerve field stimulation (PENFS) has documented efficacy for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) via plausible vagal neuromodulation effects. The vagus nerve may affect gut microbiome composition via brain-gut-microbiome signaling. We aimed to investigate gut microbiome alterations by PENFS therapy in adolescent IBS patients. METHODS A prospective study of females with IBS aged 11-18 years receiving PENFS therapy for 4 weeks with pre- and post-intervention stool sampling was conducted. Outcome surveys completed pre-therapy, weekly, and post-therapy included IBS-Severity Scoring System (IBS-SSS), Visceral Sensitivity Index (VSI), Functional Disability Inventory (FDI), and the global symptom response scale (SRS). Bacterial DNA was extracted from stool samples followed by 16S rRNA amplification and sequencing. QIIME 2 (version 2022.2) was used for analyses of α and β diversity and differential abundance by group. RESULTS Twenty females aged 15.6 ± 1.62 years were included. IBS-SSS, VSI, and FDI scores decreased significantly after PENFS therapy (P < 0.0001, P = 0.0003, P = 0.0004, respectively). No intra- or interindividual microbiome changes were noted pre- versus post-therapy or between responders and non-responders. When response was defined by 50-point IBS-SSS score reduction, α diversity was higher in responders compared with non-responders at week 4 (P = 0.033). There was higher abundance of Blautia in excellent responders versus non-responders. CONCLUSIONS There were no substantial microbial diversity alterations with PENFS. Subjects with excellent therapeutic response showed an enrichment of relative abundance of Blautia, which may indicate that patients with specific microbial signature have a more favorable response to PENFS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetanjali Bora
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Samantha N Atkinson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Center for Microbiome Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Amy Pan
- Center for Microbiome Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Divison of Quantitative Health Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Manu Sood
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, Illinois, USA
| | - Nita Salzman
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
- Center for Microbiome Research, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Katja Karrento
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Colombo M, Aggujaro S, Lombardi N, Pedrocchi A, Molteni F, Guanziroli E. Motor and Cognitive Modulation of a Single Session of Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Post Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study. IEEE OPEN JOURNAL OF ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 4:292-299. [PMID: 38196973 PMCID: PMC10776103 DOI: 10.1109/ojemb.2023.3268011] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: The aim of the present study is to explore whether a single session of transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) can enhance the ipsilesional, and contralesional upper limb motor functions as well as cognitive functions in stroke patients. The effects of the stimulation were evaluated through two different tasks: the box and blocks test (BB), indexing manual dexterity, and the Go/No-go task, a visuomotor paradigm used to assess both motor readiness and response inhibition. Tests were administered without tVNS, during tVNS and during sham tVNS. Results: The BB showed a statistical difference for both contralesional side (p = 0.05) between Basal-Real condition (p = 0.042) and ipsilesional side (p = 0.001) between Basal-Real (p = 0.008) and for Real-Sham (p = 0.005). Any statistical difference was found for the mean latencies in the three conditions of the Go/No-go test. Conclusion: A single session of tVNS seems to improve upper limb motor functions but not cognitive functions in post-stroke patients, despite a positive trend was detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Colombo
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center Costa Masnaga – Lecco23845ComoItaly
| | - S. Aggujaro
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center Costa Masnaga – Lecco23845ComoItaly
| | - N. Lombardi
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center Costa Masnaga – Lecco23845ComoItaly
| | - A. Pedrocchi
- Nearlab, Department of Electronics, Informatics and BioengineeringPolitecnico di Milano20133MilanItaly
| | - F. Molteni
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center Costa Masnaga – Lecco23845ComoItaly
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86
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Yue Y, Zou L, Li H, Xia Y, Ren Z, Yang F, Kong D, Re G, Luo H, Zhang Z, Wang K, Zhu M. Therapeutic effect of implanted and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation on heroin-induced anxiety. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 652:46-54. [PMID: 36809704 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.02.041] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Substance addiction causes anxiety, which in turn reinforces the maintaining of substance use, resulting in a vicious circle. And this circle is one of the reasons why addiction is so hard to cure. However, there is no treatment involved in addiction-induced anxiety at present. We tested whether VNS (vagus nerve stimulation) can improve heroin-induced anxiety, and made a comparison between nVNS (transcervical vagus nerve stimulation) and taVNS (transauricular vagus nerve stimulation) on therapeutic effect. Mice were subjected to nVNS or taVNS before heroin administration. By observing c-Fos expression in the NTS (nucleus of the solitary tract), we assessed vagal fiber activation. Using the OFT (open field test) and the EPM (elevated cross maze test), we evaluated the anxiety-like behaviors of the mice. Using immunofluorescence, we observed the proliferation and activation of microglia in the hippocampus. And ELISA was used to measure the levels of proinflammatory factors in the hippocampus. Both nVNS and taVNS significantly increased the expression of c-Fos in the nucleus of solitary tract, suggesting the feasibility of nVNS and taVNS. The anxiety level of heroin-treated mice was significantly increased, microglia in the hippocampus was significantly proliferated and activated, and the proinflammatory factors (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in the hippocampus were significantly up-regulated. Crucially, both nVNS and taVNS reversed the above changes caused by heroin addiction. SIGNIFICANCE: It was confirmed that the therapeutic effect of VNS on heroin-induced anxiety may be an effective treatment method to break the "addiction-anxiety" cycle and provides some insights for subsequent treatment of addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingbiao Yue
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Lei Zou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, Yunnan, China
| | - Hong Li
- Narcotics Control Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Yu Xia
- Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhouyang Ren
- Narcotics Control Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Fazhen Yang
- Narcotics Control Bureau of the Ministry of Public Security of Yunnan Province, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Deshenyue Kong
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Guofen Re
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Huayou Luo
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hernia Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650032, China
| | | | | | - Mei Zhu
- First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China.
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87
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Keever KR, Yakubenko VP, Hoover DB. Neuroimmune nexus in the pathophysiology and therapy of inflammatory disorders: role of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Pharmacol Res 2023; 191:106758. [PMID: 37028776 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
The α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) is a key protein in the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) that links the nervous and immune systems. Initially, the pathway was discovered based on the observation that vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) reduced the systemic inflammatory response in septic animals. Subsequent studies form a foundation for the leading hypothesis about the central role of the spleen in CAP activation. VNS evokes noradrenergic stimulation of ACh release from T cells in the spleen, which in turn activates α7nAChRs on the surface of macrophages. α7nAChR-mediated signaling in macrophages reduces inflammatory cytokine secretion and modifies apoptosis, proliferation, and macrophage polarization, eventually reducing the systemic inflammatory response. A protective role of the CAP has been demonstrated in preclinical studies for multiple diseases including sepsis, metabolic disease, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, endometriosis, and potentially COVID-19, sparking interest in using bioelectronic and pharmacological approaches to target α7nAChRs for treating inflammatory conditions in patients. Despite a keen interest, many aspects of the cholinergic pathway are still unknown. α7nAChRs are expressed on many other subsets of immune cells that can affect the development of inflammation differently. There are also other sources of ACh that modify immune cell functions. How the interplay of ACh and α7nAChR on different cells and in various tissues contributes to the anti-inflammatory responses requires additional study. This review provides an update on basic and translational studies of the CAP in inflammatory diseases, the relevant pharmacology of α7nAChR-activated drugs and raises some questions that require further investigation.
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88
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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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89
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Zhai W, Jiao H, Zhuang Y, Yang Y, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wang Y, Zhao YN, Zhang S, He J, Rong P. Optimizing the modulation paradigm of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation in patients with disorders of consciousness: A prospective exploratory pilot study protocol. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1145699. [PMID: 37008222 PMCID: PMC10050378 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1145699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique. Several studies have reported the effectiveness of taVNS in patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC); however, differences in the modulation paradigm have led to inconsistent treatment outcomes. Methods/design This prospective exploratory trial will include 15 patients with a minimally conscious state (MCS) recruited according to the coma recovery scale-revised (CRS-R). Each patient will receive 5 different frequencies of taVNS (1, 10, 25, 50, and 100 Hz); sham stimulation will be used as a blank control. The order of stimulation will be randomized, and the patients' CRS-R scores and resting electroencephalography (EEG) before and after stimulation will be recorded. Discussion The overall study of taVNS used in treating patients with DOC is still in the preliminary stage of exploration. Through this experiment, we aim to explore the optimal stimulation frequency parameters of taVNS for the treatment of DOC patients. Furthermore, we expect to achieve a stable improvement of consciousness in DOC patients by continuously optimizing the neuromodulation paradigm of taVNS for the treatment of DOC patients. Clinical trial registration https://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx, identifier ChiCTR 2200063828.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihang Zhai
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Haoyang Jiao
- Institute of Documentation, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yutong Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinling Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhao
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shuai Zhang
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jianghong He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Peijing Rong
- Institute of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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90
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Villar-Martinez MD, Goadsby PJ. Non-invasive neuromodulation of the cervical vagus nerve in rare primary headaches. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1062892. [PMID: 36994091 PMCID: PMC10040883 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1062892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary headache disorders can be remarkably disabling and the therapeutic options available are usually limited to medication with a high rate of adverse events. Here, we discuss the mechanism of action of non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation, as well as the findings of the main studies involving patients with primary headaches other than migraine or cluster headache, such as hemicrania continua, paroxysmal hemicrania, cough headache, or short-lasting neuralgiform headache attacks (SUNCT/SUNA), in a narrative analysis. A bibliographical search of low-prevalence disorders such as rare primary headaches retrieves a moderate number of studies, usually underpowered. Headache intensity, severity, and duration showed a clinically significant reduction in the majority, especially those involving indomethacin-responsive headaches. The lack of response of some patients with a similar diagnosis could be due to a different stimulation pattern, technique, or total dose. The use of non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation for the treatment of primary headache disorders represents an excellent option for patients with these debilitating and otherwise refractory conditions, or that cannot tolerate several lines of preventive medication, and should always be considered before contemplating invasive, non-reversible stimulation techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Dolores Villar-Martinez
- Headache Group, Wolfson CARD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR King's Clinical Research Facility, SLaM Biomedical Research Centre, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter J. Goadsby
- Headache Group, Wolfson CARD, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR King's Clinical Research Facility, SLaM Biomedical Research Centre, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Correspondence: Peter J. Goadsby
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91
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Hachul D, Almeida T, Scanavacca M. Post-COVID Dysautonomias: The Importance of Early Recognition and Implementation of Recovery Programs. Arq Bras Cardiol 2023; 120:e20230110. [PMID: 37018794 PMCID: PMC10392843 DOI: 10.36660/abc.20230110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Hachul
- Instituto do CoraçãoHCFMUSPSão PauloSPBrasilInstituto do Coração - HC-FMUSP, São Paulo, SP – Brasil
| | | | - Mauricio Scanavacca
- Instituto do CoraçãoHCFMUSPSão PauloSPBrasilInstituto do Coração - HC-FMUSP, São Paulo, SP – Brasil
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92
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Wu Z, Zhang X, Cai T, Li Y, Guo X, Zhao X, Wu D, Li Z, Zhang L. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation reduces cytokine production in sepsis: An open double-blind, sham-controlled, pilot study. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:507-514. [PMID: 36801260 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that vagus nerve-mediated inflammatory reflex could inhibit cytokine production and inflammation in sepsis animals. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the efficacy of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on inflammation and disease severity of sepsis patients. METHODS A randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot study was performed. Twenty sepsis patients were randomly assigned to receive taVNS or sham stimulation for five consecutive days. Stimulation effect was assessed with serum cytokine levels, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) Ⅱ score, and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score at baseline and on Day 3, Day 5, and Day 7. RESULTS TaVNS was well tolerated in the study population. Patients receiving taVNS experienced significant reductions in serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels and increases in IL-4 and IL-10 levels. SOFA scores decreased on Day 5 and Day 7 compared with baseline in the taVNS group. However, no changes were found in sham stimulation group. The changes of cytokine from Day 7 to Day 1 were greater with taVNS than sham stimulation. No differences in the APACHE Ⅱ score and SOFA score were observed between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS TaVNS resulted in significantly lower serum pro-inflammatory cytokines and higher serum anti-inflammatory cytokines in sepsis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyang Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Tiantian Cai
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Yankun Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Xi Guo
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Xiangyang Zhao
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Dawei Wu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Zhi Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266035, PR China.
| | - Luyao Zhang
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210023, PR China.
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93
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Cambiaghi M, Cordaro M, Dossena S, Cuzzocrea S, Buffelli M. Editorial: Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques in neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders: Physiological and molecular evidence. Front Syst Neurosci 2023; 17:1128205. [PMID: 36814991 PMCID: PMC9939818 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2023.1128205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Cambiaghi
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy,*Correspondence: Marco Cambiaghi ✉
| | - Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Silvia Dossena
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Mario Buffelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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94
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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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95
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Colzato LS, Elmers J, Beste C, Hommel B. A Prospect to Ameliorate Affective Symptoms and to Enhance Cognition in Long COVID Using Auricular Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031198. [PMID: 36769845 PMCID: PMC9917620 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031198] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Long COVID, the postviral disorder caused by COVID-19, is expected to become one of the leading causes of disability in Europe. The cognitive consequences of long COVID have been described as "brain fog" and characterized by anxiety and depression, and by cognitive deficits. Long COVID is assumed to be a complex condition arising from multiple causes, including persistent brainstem dysfunction and disrupted vagal signaling. We recommend the potential application of auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (atVNS) as an ADD-ON instrument to compensate for the cognitive decline and to ameliorate affective symptoms caused by long COVID. This technique enhances vagal signaling by directly activating the nuclei in the brainstem, which are hypoactive in long COVID to enhance mood and to promote attention, memory, and cognitive control-factors affected by long COVID. Considering that atVNS is a non-pharmacological intervention, its ADD-ON to standard pharmaceutical agents will be useful for non-responders, making of this method a suitable tool. Given that atVNS can be employed as an ecological momentary intervention (EMI), we outline the translational advantages of atVNS in the context of accelerating the cognitive and affective recovery from long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenza S. Colzato
- Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Julia Elmers
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Christian Beste
- Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernhard Hommel
- Cognitive Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, China
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center of Clinical Neuroscience, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Correspondence:
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96
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Lee HJ, Wi S, Park S, Oh BM, Seo HG, Lee WH. Exploratory Investigation of the Effects of Tactile Stimulation Using Air Pressure at the Auricular Vagus Nerve on Heart Rate Variability. Ann Rehabil Med 2023; 47:68-77. [PMID: 36599294 PMCID: PMC10020049 DOI: 10.5535/arm.22119] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of tactile stimulation using air pressure at the auricular branch of the vagus nerve on autonomic activity in healthy individuals. METHODS Three types of tactile stimulation were used in this study: continuous low-amplitude, continuous high-amplitude, and pulsed airflow. The tactile stimulations were provided to the cymba concha to investigate autonomic activity in 22 healthy participants. The mean heart rate (HR) and parameters of HR variability, including the standard deviation of R-R intervals (SDNN) and root mean square of successive R-R interval differences (RMSSD) were compared at baseline, stimulation, and recovery periods. RESULTS Two-way repeated measures ANOVA indicated a significant main effect of time on HR (p=0.001), SDNN (p=0.003), and RMSSD (p<0.001). These parameters showed significant differences between baseline and stimulation periods and baseline and recovery periods in the post-hoc analyses. There were no significant differences in the changes induced by stimulation type and the interaction between time and stimulation type for all parameters. One-way repeated measures ANOVA showed that HR, SDNN, and RMSSD did not differ significantly among the three time periods during sham stimulation. CONCLUSION Parasympathetic activity can be enhanced by auricular tactile stimulation using air pressure, targeting the cymba concha. Further studies are warranted to investigate the optimal stimulation parameters for potential clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jeong Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Soohyun Wi
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sungwoo Park
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Byung-Mo Oh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.,National Traffic Injury Rehabilitation Hospital, Yangpyeong, Korea.,Institute on Aging, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han Gil Seo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Woo Hyung Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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97
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De Smet S, Ottaviani C, Verkuil B, Kappen M, Baeken C, Vanderhasselt MA. Effects of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation on cognitive and autonomic correlates of perseverative cognition. Psychophysiology 2023; 60:e14250. [PMID: 36683127 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14250] [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: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Perseverative cognitions can provoke psychophysiological stress in the absence of an actual stressor and are considered important transdiagnostic vulnerability factors for several (mental) health issues. These stress-related cognitive processes are reflected by both cognitive (assessed by self-reports) and autonomic inflexibility (assessed by heart rate variability; HRV), with a key role attributed to the vagus nerve. Interestingly, modulation of the afferent branches of the vagus can be achieved with transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), a non-invasive technique that employs a low-intensity electrical current applied to the ear. In a sample of healthy individuals, we investigated the effects of taVNS of the left concha, compared to sham (earlobe) stimulation, on the cognitive and autonomic correlates of perseverative cognition following a psychosocial stress task. Interestingly, taVNS significantly reduced cognitive rigidity, reflected by reduced subjective perseverative thinking after psychosocial stress. Although there were no direct effects on autonomic correlates of perseverative cognition, individual differences in perseverative thinking after the stressor significantly affected the effects of taVNS on HRV. Specifically, more autonomic inflexibility during the stress task (i.e., reduced HRV) was associated with increases in perseverative thinking afterward for the sham condition, but not the active taVNS condition. Additional exploratory analyses revealed no significant moderation of stimulation intensity. Overall, the study findings endorse the association between perseverative cognitions and vagus nerve functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie De Smet
- Department of Head and Skin, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Cristina Ottaviani
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.,IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Bart Verkuil
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands.,Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition (LIBC), Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Mitchel Kappen
- Department of Head and Skin, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Baeken
- Department of Head and Skin, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Psychiatry, Brussels University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt
- Department of Head and Skin, Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Ghent Experimental Psychiatry (GHEP) Lab, Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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98
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Chen S, Du M, Wang Y, Li Y, Tong B, Qiu J, Wu F, Liu Y. State of the art: non-invasive electrical stimulation for the treatment of chronic tinnitus. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2023; 14:20406223221148061. [PMID: 36860934 PMCID: PMC9969452 DOI: 10.1177/20406223221148061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Subjective tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of external stimulation. Neuromodulation is a novel method with promising properties for application in tinnitus management. This study sought to review the types of non-invasive electrical stimulation in tinnitus to provide the foothold for further research. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched for studies on the modulation of tinnitus by non-invasive electrical stimulation. Among the four forms of non-invasive electrical modulation, transcranial direct current stimulation, transcranial random noise stimulation, and transauricular vagus nerve stimulation yielded promising results, whereas the effect of transcranial alternating current stimulation in the treatment of tinnitus has not been confirmed. Non-invasive electrical stimulation can effectively suppress tinnitus perception in some patients. However, the heterogeneity in parameter settings leads to scattered and poorly replicated findings. Further high-quality studies are needed to identify optimal parameters to develop more acceptable protocols for tinnitus modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanwen Chen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Maoshan Du
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Yifan Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Busheng Tong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Jianxin Qiu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, P.R. China
| | - Feihu Wu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, 117 Meishan Road, Hefei 230031, Anhui, P.R. China
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99
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Emerging Noninvasive Neuromodulation Methods for Functional Gastrointestinal Diseases. J Transl Int Med 2023; 10:281-285. [PMID: 36860625 PMCID: PMC9969562 DOI: 10.2478/jtim-2022-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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100
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Chen Y, Lu X, Hu L. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Facilitates Cortical Arousal and Alertness. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1402. [PMID: 36674156 PMCID: PMC9859411 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a promising noninvasive technique with potential beneficial effects on human emotion and cognition, including cortical arousal and alertness. However, it remains unclear how taVNS could improve cortical arousal and alertness, which are crucial for consciousness and daily task performance. Here, we aimed to estimate the modulatory effect of taVNS on cortical arousal and alertness and to reveal its underlying neural mechanisms. Sixty subjects were recruited and randomly assigned to either the taVNS group (receiving taVNS for 20 min) or the control group (receiving taVNS for 30 s). The effects of taVNS were evaluated behaviorally using a cue-target pattern task, and neurologically using a resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG). We found that taVNS facilitated the reaction time for the targets requiring right-hand responses and attenuated high-frequency alpha oscillations under the close-eye resting state. Importantly, taVNS-modulated alpha oscillations were positively correlated with the facilitated target detection performance, i.e., reduced reaction time. Furthermore, microstate analysis of the resting-state EEG when the eyes were closed illustrated that taVNS reduced the mean duration of microstate C, which has been proven to be associated with alertness. Altogether, this work provided novel evidence suggesting that taVNS could be an enhancer of both cortical arousal and alertness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xuejing Lu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Li Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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