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Baek IS, Choi S, Yoon H, Chung G, Kim SK. Analgesic Effect of Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Oxaliplatin-induced Peripheral Neuropathic Pain in a Rodent Model. Exp Neurobiol 2024; 33:129-139. [PMID: 38993080 PMCID: PMC11247280 DOI: 10.5607/en24012] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer chemotherapy often triggers peripheral neuropathy in patients, leading to neuropathic pain in the extremities. While previous research has explored various nerve stimulation to alleviate chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), evidence on the effectiveness of noninvasive auricular vagus nerve stimulation (aVNS) remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of non-invasive aVNS in relieving CIPN pain. To induce CIPN in experimental animals, oxaliplatin was intraperitoneally administered to rats (6 mg/kg). Mechanical and cold allodynia, the representative symptoms of neuropathic pain, were evaluated using the von Frey test and acetone test, respectively. The CIPN animals were randomly assigned to groups and treated with aVNS (5 V, square wave) at different frequencies (2, 20, or 100 Hz) for 20 minutes. Results revealed that 20 Hz aVNS exhibited the most pronounced analgesic effect, while 2 or 100 Hz aVNS exhibited weak effects. Immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated increased c-Fos expression in the locus coeruleus (LC) in the brain of CIPN rats treated with aVNS compared to sham treatment. To elucidate the analgesic mechanisms involving the adrenergic descending pathway, α1-, α2-, or β-adrenergic receptor antagonists were administered to the spinal cord before 20 Hz aVNS. Only the β-adrenergic receptor antagonist, propranolol, blocked the analgesic effect of aVNS. These findings suggest that 20 Hz aVNS may effectively alleviate CIPN pain through β-adrenergic receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- In Seon Baek
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Seunghwan Choi
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Heera Yoon
- Division of Preclinical R&D, Neurogrin Inc., Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Geehoon Chung
- Division of Preclinical R&D, Neurogrin Inc., Seoul 02447, Korea
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Sun Kwang Kim
- Department of Science in Korean Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
- Department of East-West Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
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Quigley KS, Gianaros PJ, Norman GJ, Jennings JR, Berntson GG, de Geus EJC. Publication guidelines for human heart rate and heart rate variability studies in psychophysiology-Part 1: Physiological underpinnings and foundations of measurement. Psychophysiology 2024:e14604. [PMID: 38873876 DOI: 10.1111/psyp.14604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
This Committee Report provides methodological, interpretive, and reporting guidance for researchers who use measures of heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in psychophysiological research. We provide brief summaries of best practices in measuring HR and HRV via electrocardiographic and photoplethysmographic signals in laboratory, field (ambulatory), and brain-imaging contexts to address research questions incorporating measures of HR and HRV. The Report emphasizes evidence for the strengths and weaknesses of different recording and derivation methods for measures of HR and HRV. Along with this guidance, the Report reviews what is known about the origin of the heartbeat and its neural control, including factors that produce and influence HRV metrics. The Report concludes with checklists to guide authors in study design and analysis considerations, as well as guidance on the reporting of key methodological details and characteristics of the samples under study. It is expected that rigorous and transparent recording and reporting of HR and HRV measures will strengthen inferences across the many applications of these metrics in psychophysiology. The prior Committee Reports on HR and HRV are several decades old. Since their appearance, technologies for human cardiac and vascular monitoring in laboratory and daily life (i.e., ambulatory) contexts have greatly expanded. This Committee Report was prepared for the Society for Psychophysiological Research to provide updated methodological and interpretive guidance, as well as to summarize best practices for reporting HR and HRV studies in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen S Quigley
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Peter J Gianaros
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Greg J Norman
- Department of Psychology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - J Richard Jennings
- Department of Psychiatry & Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gary G Berntson
- Department of Psychology & Psychiatry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Eco J C de Geus
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Verlinden TJM, Lamers WH, Herrler A, Köhler SE. The differences in the anatomy of the thoracolumbar and sacral autonomic outflow are quantitative. Clin Auton Res 2024; 34:79-97. [PMID: 38403748 PMCID: PMC10944453 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-024-01023-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE We have re-evaluated the anatomical arguments that underlie the division of the spinal visceral outflow into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. METHODOLOGY Using a systematic literature search, we mapped the location of catecholaminergic neurons throughout the mammalian peripheral nervous system. Subsequently, a narrative method was employed to characterize segment-dependent differences in the location of preganglionic cell bodies and the composition of white and gray rami communicantes. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION One hundred seventy studies were included in the systematic review, providing information on 389 anatomical structures. Catecholaminergic nerve fibers are present in most spinal and all cranial nerves and ganglia, including those that are known for their parasympathetic function. Along the entire spinal autonomic outflow pathways, proximal and distal catecholaminergic cell bodies are common in the head, thoracic, and abdominal and pelvic region, which invalidates the "short-versus-long preganglionic neuron" argument. Contrary to the classically confined outflow levels T1-L2 and S2-S4, preganglionic neurons have been found in the resulting lumbar gap. Preganglionic cell bodies that are located in the intermediolateral zone of the thoracolumbar spinal cord gradually nest more ventrally within the ventral motor nuclei at the lumbar and sacral levels, and their fibers bypass the white ramus communicans and sympathetic trunk to emerge directly from the spinal roots. Bypassing the sympathetic trunk, therefore, is not exclusive for the sacral outflow. We conclude that the autonomic outflow displays a conserved architecture along the entire spinal axis, and that the perceived differences in the anatomy of the autonomic thoracolumbar and sacral outflow are quantitative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J M Verlinden
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Wouter H Lamers
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Tytgat Institute for Liver and Intestinal Research, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andreas Herrler
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - S Eleonore Köhler
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Universiteitssingel 50, 6229 ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Tsai W, Hung TC, Kusayama T, Han S, Fishbein MC, Chen LS, Chen PS. Autonomic Modulation of Atrial Fibrillation. JACC Basic Transl Sci 2023; 8:1398-1410. [PMID: 38094692 PMCID: PMC10714180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2023.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system plays a vital role in cardiac arrhythmias, including atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, reducing the sympathetic tone via neuromodulation methods may be helpful in AF control. Myocardial ischemia is associated with increased sympathetic tone and incidence of AF. It is an excellent disease model to understand the neural mechanisms of AF and the effects of neuromodulation. This review summarizes the relationship between autonomic nervous system and AF and reviews methods and mechanisms of neuromodulation. This review proposes that noninvasive or minimally invasive neuromodulation methods will be most useful in the future management of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei–Chung Tsai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Chi Hung
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Takashi Kusayama
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences Kanazawa, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Seongwook Han
- Department of Cardiology, Keimyung University Dongsan Medical Center, Daegu, Korea
| | - Michael C. Fishbein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Lan S. Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Ruigrok TJH, Mantel SA, Orlandini L, de Knegt C, Vincent AJPE, Spoor JKH. Sympathetic components in left and right human cervical vagus nerve: implications for vagus nerve stimulation. Front Neuroanat 2023; 17:1205660. [PMID: 37492698 PMCID: PMC10364449 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2023.1205660] [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: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cervical vagus nerve stimulation is in a great variety of clinical situations indicated as a form of treatment. It is textbook knowledge that at the cervical level the vagus nerve contains many different fiber classes. Yet, recently, several reports have shown that this nerve also may contain an additional class of potentially noradrenergic fibers, suggested to denote efferent sympathetic fibers. As such, the nature and presence of these fibers should be considered when choosing a stimulation protocol. We have studied human vagus material extracted from dissection room cadavers in order to further confirm the presence of this class of fibers, to study their origin and direction within the nerve and to determine their distribution and variability between subjects and pairs of left and right nerves of the same individual. Sections were studied with immunohistochemical techniques using antibodies against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH: presumed to indicate noradrenergic fibers), myelin basic protein and neurofilament. Our results show that at least part of the TH-positive fibers derive from the superior cervical ganglion or sympathetic trunk, do not follow a cranial but take a peripheral course through the nerve. The portion of TH-positive fibers is highly variable between individuals but also between the left and right pairs of the same individual. TH-positive fibers can distribute and wander throughout the fascicles but maintain a generally clustered appearance. The fraction of TH-positive fibers generally diminishes in the left cervical vagus nerve when moving in a caudal direction but remains more constant in the right nerve. These results may help to determine optimal stimulation parameters for cervical vagus stimulation in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom J. H. Ruigrok
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sophia A. Mantel
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lara Orlandini
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Corné de Knegt
- Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Jochem K. H. Spoor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Jayaprakash N, Song W, Toth V, Vardhan A, Levy T, Tomaio J, Qanud K, Mughrabi I, Chang YC, Rob M, Daytz A, Abbas A, Nassrallah Z, Volpe BT, Tracey KJ, Al-Abed Y, Datta-Chaudhuri T, Miller L, Barbe MF, Lee SC, Zanos TP, Zanos S. Organ- and function-specific anatomical organization of vagal fibers supports fascicular vagus nerve stimulation. Brain Stimul 2023; 16:484-506. [PMID: 36773779 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagal fibers travel inside fascicles and form branches to innervate organs and regulate organ functions. Existing vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapies activate vagal fibers non-selectively, often resulting in reduced efficacy and side effects from non-targeted organs. The transverse and longitudinal arrangement of fibers inside the vagal trunk with respect to the functions they mediate and organs they innervate is unknown, however it is crucial for selective VNS. Using micro-computed tomography imaging, we tracked fascicular trajectories and found that, in swine, sensory and motor fascicles are spatially separated cephalad, close to the nodose ganglion, and merge caudad, towards the lower cervical and upper thoracic region; larynx-, heart- and lung-specific fascicles are separated caudad and progressively merge cephalad. Using quantified immunohistochemistry at single fiber level, we identified and characterized all vagal fibers and found that fibers of different morphological types are differentially distributed in fascicles: myelinated afferents and efferents occupy separate fascicles, myelinated and unmyelinated efferents also occupy separate fascicles, and small unmyelinated afferents are widely distributed within most fascicles. We developed a multi-contact cuff electrode to accommodate the fascicular structure of the vagal trunk and used it to deliver fascicle-selective cervical VNS in anesthetized and awake swine. Compound action potentials from distinct fiber types, and physiological responses from different organs, including laryngeal muscle, cough, breathing, and heart rate responses are elicited in a radially asymmetric manner, with consistent angular separations that agree with the documented fascicular organization. These results indicate that fibers in the trunk of the vagus nerve are anatomically organized according to functions they mediate and organs they innervate and can be asymmetrically activated by fascicular cervical VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Weiguo Song
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Viktor Toth
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Todd Levy
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Khaled Qanud
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Yao-Chuan Chang
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Moontahinaz Rob
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Anna Daytz
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Adam Abbas
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Zeinab Nassrallah
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Bruce T Volpe
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Kevin J Tracey
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Yousef Al-Abed
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Larry Miller
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Sunhee C Lee
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | | | - Stavros Zanos
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA; Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Manhasset, NY, USA.
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Upadhye AR, Kolluru C, Druschel L, Lababidi LA, Ahmad SS, Menendez DM, Buyukcelik ON, Settell ML, Blanz SL, Jenkins MW, Wilson DL, Zhang J, Tatsuoka C, Grill WM, Pelot NA, Ludwig KA, Gustafson KJ, Shoffstall AJ. Fascicles split or merge every ∼560 microns within the human cervical vagus nerve. J Neural Eng 2022; 19:10.1088/1741-2552/ac9643. [PMID: 36174538 PMCID: PMC10353574 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac9643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objective.Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is Food and Drug Administration-approved for epilepsy, depression, and obesity, and stroke rehabilitation; however, the morphological anatomy of the vagus nerve targeted by stimulatation is poorly understood. Here, we used microCT to quantify the fascicular structure and neuroanatomy of human cervical vagus nerves (cVNs).Approach.We collected eight mid-cVN specimens from five fixed cadavers (three left nerves, five right nerves). Analysis focused on the 'surgical window': 5 cm of length, centered around the VNS implant location. Tissue was stained with osmium tetroxide, embedded in paraffin, and imaged on a microCT scanner. We visualized and quantified the merging and splitting of fascicles, and report a morphometric analysis of fascicles: count, diameter, and area.Main results.In our sample of human cVNs, a fascicle split or merge event was observed every ∼560µm (17.8 ± 6.1 events cm-1). Mean morphological outcomes included: fascicle count (6.6 ± 2.8 fascicles; range 1-15), fascicle diameter (514 ± 142µm; range 147-1360µm), and total cross-sectional fascicular area (1.32 ± 0.41 mm2; range 0.58-2.27 mm).Significance.The high degree of fascicular splitting and merging, along with wide range in key fascicular morphological parameters across humans may help to explain the clinical heterogeneity in patient responses to VNS. These data will enable modeling and experimental efforts to determine the clinical effect size of such variation. These data will also enable efforts to design improved VNS electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniruddha R. Upadhye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- APT Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Chaitanya Kolluru
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Lindsey Druschel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- APT Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Luna Al Lababidi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Sami S. Ahmad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Dhariyat M. Menendez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- APT Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Ozge N. Buyukcelik
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Megan L. Settell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
| | - Stephan L. Blanz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
- Wisconsin Institute of Neuroengineering (WITNe), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Michael W. Jenkins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - David L. Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Curtis Tatsuoka
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- FES Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Warren M. Grill
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
- Department of Neurosurgery, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Nicole A. Pelot
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States of America
| | - Kip A. Ludwig
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States of America
- Wisconsin Institute of Neuroengineering (WITNe), University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kenneth J. Gustafson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- FES Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Andrew J. Shoffstall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
- APT Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
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Ottaviani MM, Macefield VG. Structure and Functions of the Vagus Nerve in Mammals. Compr Physiol 2022; 12:3989-4037. [PMID: 35950655 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c210042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
We review the structure and function of the vagus nerve, drawing on information obtained in humans and experimental animals. The vagus nerve is the largest and longest cranial nerve, supplying structures in the neck, thorax, and abdomen. It is also the only cranial nerve in which the vast majority of its innervation territory resides outside the head. While belonging to the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system, the nerve is primarily sensory-it is dominated by sensory axons. We discuss the macroscopic and microscopic features of the nerve, including a detailed description of its extensive territory. Histochemical and genetic profiles of afferent and efferent axons are also detailed, as are the central nuclei involved in the processing of sensory information conveyed by the vagus nerve and the generation of motor (including parasympathetic) outflow via the vagus nerve. We provide a comprehensive review of the physiological roles of vagal sensory and motor neurons in control of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems, and finish with a discussion on the interactions between the vagus nerve and the immune system. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12: 1-49, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo M Ottaviani
- Department of Neurosurgery, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Vaughan G Macefield
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Anatomy & Physiology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Ahmed U, Chang YC, Zafeiropoulos S, Nassrallah Z, Miller L, Zanos S. Strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:9. [PMID: 35637543 PMCID: PMC9150383 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is involved in the autonomic regulation of physiological homeostasis, through vast innervation of cervical, thoracic and abdominal visceral organs. Stimulation of the vagus with bioelectronic devices represents a therapeutic opportunity for several disorders implicating the autonomic nervous system and affecting different organs. During clinical translation, vagus stimulation therapies may benefit from a precision medicine approach, in which stimulation accommodates individual variability due to nerve anatomy, nerve-electrode interface or disease state and aims at eliciting therapeutic effects in targeted organs, while minimally affecting non-targeted organs. In this review, we discuss the anatomical and physiological basis for precision neuromodulation of the vagus at the level of nerve fibers, fascicles, branches and innervated organs. We then discuss different strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation, including fascicle- or fiber-selective cervical vagus nerve stimulation, stimulation of vagal branches near the end-organs, and ultrasound stimulation of vagus terminals at the end-organs themselves. Finally, we summarize targets for vagus neuromodulation in neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders and suggest potential precision neuromodulation strategies that could form the basis for effective and safe therapies.
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Giovannetti O, Tomalty D, Gaudet D, Clohosey D, Forster A, Monaghan M, Harvey MA, Johnston S, Komisaruk B, Goldstein S, Hannan J, Goldstein I, Adams MA. Immunohistochemical Investigation of Autonomic and Sensory Innervation of Anterior Vaginal Wall Female Periurethral Tissue: A Study of the Surgical Field of Mid-Urethral Sling Surgery Using Cadaveric Simulation. J Sex Med 2021; 18:1167-1180. [PMID: 37057425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction, including female orgasm disorder, has been reported following mid-urethral sling (MUS) surgery to treat bothersome stress urinary incontinence. Anterior vaginal wall-female periurethral tissue (AVW-FPT) likely contains autonomic and sensory innervation involved in the female sexual response, and injury to these nerves may result from MUS implantation. AIM To characterize, using fresh cadaveric tissue, autonomic and sensory nerves in AVW- FPT using immunohistochemistry (IHC), and to assess their proximity to an implanted MUS. METHODS AVW-FPT was excised following careful dissection from four fresh cadavers. Prior to dissection, one cadaver underwent simulation of the MUS procedure by a urogynegologist, using a fascial sling. All samples were paraffin embedded, sectioned, and stained with hematoxylin. Serial sectioning and IHC were performed to identify nerves. IHC markers were used to characterize the sensory and autonomic innervation. OUTCOMES IHC localization of autonomic and sensory nerve markers consistent with neural tissue within the region of MUS implantation. RESULTS IHC of AVW-FPT using protein gene product 9.5 (PGP9.5), a general nerve stain, revealed innervation throughout the region targeted by the MUS implantation. More specifically, immunoreactivity for both autonomic (tyrosine hydroxylase, TH) and sensory (Nav1.8 and S100ß) nerves were found in close proximity (<1 mm) to the implanted MUS. In addition, a subset of S100ß positive nerves also showed immunoreactivity for calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Combining the IHC findings with the surgical simulation of the MUS implantation revealed the potential for damage to both autonomic and sensory nerves as a direct result of the MUS procedure. CLINICAL TRANSLATION The identified autonomic and sensory nerves of the AVW-FPT may contribute to the female sexual response, and yet are potentially negatively impacted by MUS procedures. Given that surgeries performed on male genital tissue, including the prostate, may cause sexual dysfunction secondary to nerve damage, and that urologists routinely provide informed consent regarding this possibility, urogynaecologists are encouraged to obtain appropriate informed consent from prospective patients undergoing the MUS procedure. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is the first study to characterize the sensory and autonomic innervation within the surgical field of MUS implantation and demonstrate its relationship to an implanted MUS. The small sample size is a limitation of this study. CONCLUSION The present study provides evidence of potential injury to autonomic and sensory innervation of AVW-FPT as a consequence of MUS implantation, which may help explain the underlying mechanisms involved in the reported post-operative female sexual dysfunction in some women. Giovannetti O, Tomalty D, Gaudet D, et al. Immunohistochemical Investigation of Autonomic and Sensory Innervation of Anterior Vaginal Wall Female Periurethral Tissue: A Study of the Surgical Field of Mid-Urethral Sling Surgery Using Cadaveric Simulation. J Sex Med 2021;18:1168-1180.
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Kusayama T, Wan J, Yuan Y, Chen PS. Neural Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities for Atrial Fibrillation. Methodist Debakey Cardiovasc J 2021; 17:43-47. [PMID: 34104319 DOI: 10.14797/fvdn2224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality and complications. The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a central role in AF, with the heart regulated by both extrinsic and intrinsic properties. In the extrinsic ANS, the sympathetic fibers are derived from the major paravertebral ganglia, especially the stellate ganglion (SG), which is a source of cardiac sympathetic innervation since it connects with multiple intrathoracic nerves and structures. The major intrinsic ANS is a network of axons and ganglionated plexi that contains a variety of sympathetic and parasympathetic neurons, which communicate with the extrinsic ANS. Simultaneous sympathovagal activation contributes to the development of AF because it increases calcium entry and shortens the atrial action potential duration. In animal and human studies, neuromodulation methods such as electrical stimulation and renal denervation have indicated potential benefits in controlling AF in patients as they cause SG remodeling and reduce sympathetic outflow. This review focuses on the neural mechanisms relevant to AF and the recent developments of neuromodulation methods for AF control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Kusayama
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Juyi Wan
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana.,Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
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12
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Kawada T, Sonobe T, Nishikawa T, Hayama Y, Li M, Zheng C, Uemura K, Akiyama T, Pearson JT, Sugimachi M. Contribution of afferent pathway to vagal nerve stimulation-induced myocardial interstitial acetylcholine release in rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 319:R517-R525. [PMID: 32903042 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00080.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) has been explored as a potential therapy for chronic heart failure. The contribution of the afferent pathway to myocardial interstitial acetylcholine (ACh) release during VNS has yet to be clarified. In seven anesthetized Wistar-Kyoto rats, we implanted microdialysis probes in the left ventricular free wall and measured the myocardial interstitial ACh release during right VNS with the following combinations of stimulation frequency (F in Hz) and voltage readout (V in volts): F0V0 (no stimulation), F5V3, F20V3, F5V10, and F20V10. F5V3 did not affect the ACh level. F20V3, F5V10, and F20V10 increased the ACh level to 2.83 ± 0.47 (P < 0.01), 4.31 ± 1.09 (P < 0.001), and 4.33 ± 0.82 (P < 0.001) nM, respectively, compared with F0V0 (1.76 ± 0.22 nM). After right vagal afferent transection (rVAX), F20V3 and F20V10 increased the ACh level to 2.90 ± 0.53 (P < 0.001) and 3.48 ± 0.63 (P < 0.001) nM, respectively, compared with F0V0 (1.61 ± 0.19 nM), but F5V10 did not (2.11 ± 0.24 nM). The ratio of the ACh levels after rVAX relative to before was significantly <100% in F5V10 (59.4 ± 8.7%) but not in F20V3 (102.0 ± 8.7%). These results suggest that high-frequency and low-voltage stimulation (F20V3) evoked the ACh release mainly via direct activation of the vagal efferent pathway. By contrast, low-frequency and high-voltage stimulation (F5V10) evoked the ACh release in a manner dependent on the vagal afferent pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toru Kawada
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Sonobe
- Department of Cardiac Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takuya Nishikawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yohsuke Hayama
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Meihua Li
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Can Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazunori Uemura
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Akiyama
- Department of Cardiac Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - James T Pearson
- Department of Cardiac Physiology, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan.,Department of Physiology and Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Masaru Sugimachi
- Department of Cardiovascular Dynamics, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, Osaka, Japan
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13
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Bookout AL, Gautron L. Characterization of a cell bridge variant connecting the nodose and superior cervical ganglia in the mouse: Prevalence, anatomical features, and practical implications. J Comp Neurol 2020; 529:111-128. [PMID: 32356570 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
While autonomic ganglia have been extensively studied in rats instead of mice, there is renewed interest in the anatomy of the mouse autonomic nervous system. This study examined the prevalence and anatomical features of a cell bridge linking two autonomic ganglia of the neck, namely, the nodose ganglion (NG) and the superior cervical ganglion (SCG) in a cohort of C57BL/6J mice. We identified a cell bridge between the NG and the cranial pole of the SCG. This cell bridge was tubular shaped with an average length and width of 700 and 240 μm, respectively. The cell bridge was frequently unilateral and significantly more prevalent in the ganglionic masses from males (38%) than females (21%). On each of its extremities, it contained a mixed of vagal afferents and postganglionic sympathetic neurons. The two populations of neurons abruptly replaced each other in the middle of the cell bridge. We examined the mRNA expression for selected autonomic markers in samples of the NG with or without cell bridge. Our results indicated that the cell bridge was enriched in both markers of postganglionic sympathetic and vagal afferents neurons. Lastly, using FluoroGold microinjection into the NG, we found that the existence of a cell bridge may occasionally lead to the inadvertent contamination of the SCG. In summary, this study describes the anatomy of a cell bridge variant consisting of the fusion of the mouse NG and SCG. The practical implications of our observations are discussed with respect to studies of the mouse vagal afferents, an area of research of increasing popularity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angie L Bookout
- Division of Hypothalamic Research and Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Laurent Gautron
- Division of Hypothalamic Research and Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
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14
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Bassi GS, Kanashiro A, Coimbra NC, Terrando N, Maixner W, Ulloa L. Anatomical and clinical implications of vagal modulation of the spleen. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 112:363-373. [PMID: 32061636 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The vagus nerve coordinates most physiologic functions including the cardiovascular and immune systems. This mechanism has significant clinical implications because electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve can control inflammation and organ injury in infectious and inflammatory disorders. The complex mechanisms that mediate vagal modulation of systemic inflammation are mainly regulated via the spleen. More specifically, vagal stimulation prevents organ injury and systemic inflammation by inhibiting the production of cytokines in the spleen. However, the neuronal regulation of the spleen is controversial suggesting that it can be mediated by either monosynaptic innervation of the splenic parenchyma or secondary neurons from the celiac ganglion depending on the experimental conditions. Recent physiologic and anatomic studies suggest that inflammation is regulated by neuro-immune multi-synaptic interactions between the vagus and the splanchnic nerves to modulate the spleen. Here, we review the current knowledge on these interactions, and discuss their experimental and clinical implications in infectious and inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel S Bassi
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology. Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Alexandre Kanashiro
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Norberto C Coimbra
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Niccolò Terrando
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology. Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - William Maixner
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology. Duke University, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology. Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
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15
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Payne SC, Furness JB, Stebbing MJ. Bioelectric neuromodulation for gastrointestinal disorders: effectiveness and mechanisms. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 16:89-105. [PMID: 30390018 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-018-0078-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract has extensive, surgically accessible nerve connections with the central nervous system. This provides the opportunity to exploit rapidly advancing methods of nerve stimulation to treat gastrointestinal disorders. Bioelectric neuromodulation technology has considerably advanced in the past decade, but sacral nerve stimulation for faecal incontinence currently remains the only neuromodulation protocol in general use for a gastrointestinal disorder. Treatment of other conditions, such as IBD, obesity, nausea and gastroparesis, has had variable success. That nerves modulate inflammation in the intestine is well established, but the anti-inflammatory effects of vagal nerve stimulation have only recently been discovered, and positive effects of this approach were seen in only some patients with Crohn's disease in a single trial. Pulses of high-frequency current applied to the vagus nerve have been used to block signalling from the stomach to the brain to reduce appetite with variable outcomes. Bioelectric neuromodulation has also been investigated for postoperative ileus, gastroparesis symptoms and constipation in animal models and some clinical trials. The clinical success of this bioelectric neuromodulation therapy might be enhanced through better knowledge of the targeted nerve pathways and their physiological and pathophysiological roles, optimizing stimulation protocols and determining which patients benefit most from this therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie C Payne
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. .,Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - John B Furness
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Martin J Stebbing
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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16
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Pelot NA, Behrend CE, Grill WM. On the parameters used in finite element modeling of compound peripheral nerves. J Neural Eng 2018; 16:016007. [PMID: 30507555 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aaeb0c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Computational modeling is an important tool for developing and optimizing implantable neural stimulation devices, but requires accurate electrical and geometrical parameter values to improve predictive value. We quantified the effects of perineurial (resistive sheath around each fascicle) and endoneurial (within each fascicle) parameter values for modeling peripheral nerve stimulation. APPROACH We implemented 3D finite element models of compound peripheral nerves and cuff electrodes to quantify activation and block thresholds of model axons. We also implemented a 2D finite element model of a bundle of axons to estimate the bulk transverse endoneurial resistivity; we compared numerical estimates to an analytical solution. MAIN RESULTS Since the perineurium is highly resistive, potentials were approximately constant over the cross section of a fascicle, and the perineurium resistivity, longitudinal endoneurial resistivity, and fascicle diameter had important effects on thresholds. Activation thresholds increased up to ~130% for higher perineurium resistivity (~400 versus 2200 Ω m) and by ~35%-250% for lower longitudinal endoneurial resistivity (3.5 versus 0.75 Ω m), with larger increases for smaller diameter axons and for axons in larger fascicles. Further, thresholds increased by ~30%-180% for larger fascicle radii, yielding a larger increase with higher perineurium resistivity. Thresholds were largely insensitive to the transverse endoneurial resistivity, but estimates of the bulk resistivity increased with extracellular resistivity and axonal area fraction; the numerical and analytical estimates were in strong agreement except at high axonal area fractions, where structured axon placements that achieved tighter packing produced electric field inhomogeneities. SIGNIFICANCE We performed a systematic investigation of the effects of values and methods for modeling the perineurium and endoneurium on thresholds for neural stimulation and block. These results provide guidance for future modeling studies, including parameter selection, data interpretation, and comparison to experimental results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Pelot
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Room 1427, Fitzpatrick CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, Campus Box 90281, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
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17
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Antiarrhythmic effects of vagal nerve stimulation after cardiac sympathetic denervation in the setting of chronic myocardial infarction. Heart Rhythm 2018. [PMID: 29530832 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2018.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuraxial modulation with cardiac sympathetic denervation (CSD) can potentially reduce burden of ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VT). However, despite catheter ablation and CSD, VT can recur in patients with cardiomyopathy and the role of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) in this setting is unclear. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the electrophysiological effects of VNS after CSD in normal and infarcted hearts. METHODS In 10 normal and 6 infarcted pigs, electrophysiological and hemodynamic parameters were evaluated before and during intermittent VNS pre-CSD (bilateral stellectomy and T2-T4 thoracic ganglia removal) as well as post-CSD. The effect of VNS during isoproterenol was also assessed pre- and post-CSD. Multielectrode ventricular activation recovery interval (ARI) recordings, a surrogate of action potential duration, were obtained. VT inducibility was tested during isoproterenol infusion after CSD with and without VNS. RESULTS VNS increased the global ARI by 4% ± 4% pre-CSD and by 5% ± 6% post-CSD, with enhanced effects observed during isoproterenol infusion (10% ± 8% pre-CSD and 12% ± 9% post-CSD) in normal animals. In infarcted animals pre-CSD, VNS increased ARI by 6% ± 7% before and by 13% ± 8% during isoproterenol infusion. Post-CSD, VNS increased ARI by 6% ± 5% before and by 11% ± 7% during isoproterenol infusion. VT was inducible in all infarcted animals post-CSD during isoproterenol infusion; this inducibility was reduced by 67% with VNS (P = .01). In all animals, the hemodynamic effects of VNS remained after CSD. CONCLUSION After CSD, the beneficial electrophysiological effects of VNS remain. Furthermore, VNS can reduce VT inducibility beyond CSD in the setting of circulating catecholamines, suggesting a role for additional parasympathetic modulation in the treatment of ventricular arrhythmias.
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18
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Pelot NA, Behrend CE, Grill WM. Modeling the response of small myelinated axons in a compound nerve to kilohertz frequency signals. J Neural Eng 2017; 14:046022. [PMID: 28361793 PMCID: PMC5677574 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aa6a5f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is growing interest in electrical neuromodulation of peripheral nerves, particularly autonomic nerves, to treat various diseases. Electrical signals in the kilohertz frequency (KHF) range can produce different responses, including conduction block. For example, EnteroMedics' vBloc® therapy for obesity delivers 5 kHz stimulation to block the abdominal vagus nerves, but the mechanisms of action are unclear. APPROACH We developed a two-part computational model, coupling a 3D finite element model of a cuff electrode around the human abdominal vagus nerve with biophysically-realistic electrical circuit equivalent (cable) model axons (1, 2, and 5.7 µm in diameter). We developed an automated algorithm to classify conduction responses as subthreshold (transmission), KHF-evoked activity (excitation), or block. We quantified neural responses across kilohertz frequencies (5-20 kHz), amplitudes (1-8 mA), and electrode designs. MAIN RESULTS We found heterogeneous conduction responses across the modeled nerve trunk, both for a given parameter set and across parameter sets, although most suprathreshold responses were excitation, rather than block. The firing patterns were irregular near transmission and block boundaries, but otherwise regular, and mean firing rates varied with electrode-fibre distance. Further, we identified excitation responses at amplitudes above block threshold, termed 're-excitation', arising from action potentials initiated at virtual cathodes. Excitation and block thresholds decreased with smaller electrode-fibre distances, larger fibre diameters, and lower kilohertz frequencies. A point source model predicted a larger fraction of blocked fibres and greater change of threshold with distance as compared to the realistic cuff and nerve model. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings of widespread asynchronous KHF-evoked activity suggest that conduction block in the abdominal vagus nerves is unlikely with current clinical parameters. Our results indicate that compound neural or downstream muscle force recordings may be unreliable as quantitative measures of neural activity for in vivo studies or as biomarkers in closed-loop clinical devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- N A Pelot
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Room 1427, Fitzpatrick CIEMAS, 101 Science Drive, Campus Box 90281, Durham, NC 27708, United States of America
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19
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Verlinden TJM, Rijkers K, Hoogland G, Herrler A. Morphology of the human cervical vagus nerve: implications for vagus nerve stimulation treatment. Acta Neurol Scand 2016; 133:173-82. [PMID: 26190515 DOI: 10.1111/ane.12462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The vagus nerve has gained a role in the treatment of certain diseases by the use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). This study provides detailed morphological information regarding the human cervical vagus nerve at the level of electrode implant. RESULTS Eleven pairs of cervical vagus nerves and four pairs of intracranial vagus nerves were analysed by the use of computer software. It was found that the right cervical vagus nerve has an 1.5 times larger effective surface area on average than the left nerve [1,089,492 ± 98,337 vs 753,915 ± 102,490 μm(2), respectively, (P < 0.05)] and that there is broad spreading within the individual nerves. At the right side, the mean effective surface area at the cervical level (1,089,492 ± 98,337 μm(2)) is larger than at the level inside the skull base (630,921 ± 105,422) (P < 0.05). This could imply that the vagus nerve receives anastomosing and 'hitchhiking' branches from areas other than the brainstem. Furthermore, abundant tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)- and dopamine ß-hydroxylase (DBH)-positive staining nerve fibres could be identified, indicating catecholaminergic neurotransmission. In two of the 22 cervical nerves, ganglion cells were found that also stained positive for TH and DBH. Stimulating the vagus nerve may therefore induce the release of dopamine and noradrenaline. A sympathetic activation could therefore be part of mechanism of action of VNS. Furthermore, it was shown that the right cervical vagus nerve contains on average two times more TH-positive nerve fibres than the left nerve (P < 0.05), a fact that could be of interest upon choosing stimulation side. We also suggest that the amount of epineurial tissue could be an important variable for determining individual effectiveness of VNS, because the absolute amount of epineurial tissue is widely spread between the individual nerves (ranging from 2,090,000 to 11,683,000 μm(2)). CONCLUSIONS We conclude by stating that one has to look at the vagus nerve as a morphological entity of the peripheral autonomic nervous system, a composite of different fibres and (anastomosing and hitchhiking) branches of different origin with different neurotransmitters, which can act both parasympathetic and sympathetic. Electrically stimulating the vagus nerve therefore is not the same as elevating the 'physiological parasympathetic tone', but may also implement catecholaminergic (sympathetic) effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. J. M. Verlinden
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology; Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences; Maastricht University; Maastricht the Netherlands
| | - K. Rijkers
- Department of Neurosurgery; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience; Maastricht University Medical Center; Maastricht the Netherlands
- Department of Neurosurgery; Zuyderland Hospital; Heerlen the Netherlands
| | - G. Hoogland
- Department of Neurosurgery; School for Mental Health and Neuroscience; Maastricht University Medical Center; Maastricht the Netherlands
| | - A. Herrler
- Department of Anatomy & Embryology; Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences; Maastricht University; Maastricht the Netherlands
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20
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Rhee KS, Hsueh CH, Hellyer JA, Park HW, Lee YS, Garlie J, Onkka P, Doytchinova AT, Garner JB, Patel J, Chen LS, Fishbein MC, Everett T, Lin SF, Chen PS. Cervical vagal nerve stimulation activates the stellate ganglion in ambulatory dogs. Korean Circ J 2015; 45:149-57. [PMID: 25810737 PMCID: PMC4372981 DOI: 10.4070/kcj.2015.45.2.149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2014] [Revised: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Recent studies showed that, in addition to parasympathetic nerves, cervical vagal nerves contained significant sympathetic nerves. We hypothesized that cervical vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) may capture the sympathetic nerves within the vagal nerve and activate the stellate ganglion. Materials and Methods We recorded left stellate ganglion nerve activity (SGNA), left thoracic vagal nerve activity (VNA), and subcutaneous electrocardiogram in seven dogs during left cervical VNS with 30 seconds on-time and 30 seconds off time. We then compared the SGNA between VNS on and off times. Results Cervical VNS at moderate (0.75 mA) output induced large SGNA, elevated heart rate (HR), and reduced HR variability, suggesting sympathetic activation. Further increase of the VNS output to >1.5 mA increased SGNA but did not significantly increase the HR, suggesting simultaneous sympathetic and parasympathetic activation. The differences of integrated SGNA and integrated VNA between VNS on and off times (ΔSGNA) increased progressively from 5.2 mV-s {95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25-9.06, p=0.018, n=7} at 1.0 mA to 13.7 mV-s (CI: 5.97-21.43, p=0.005, n=7) at 1.5 mA. The difference in HR (ΔHR, bpm) between on and off times was 5.8 bpm (CI: 0.28-11.29, p=0.042, n=7) at 1.0 mA and 5.3 bpm (CI 1.92 to 12.61, p=0.122, n=7) at 1.5 mA. Conclusion Intermittent cervical VNS may selectively capture the sympathetic components of the vagal nerve and excite the stellate ganglion at moderate output. Increasing the output may result in simultaneously sympathetic and parasympathetic capture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoung-Suk Rhee
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA. ; Department of Internal Medicine, Chonbuk National University School of Medicine, Jeonju, Korea
| | - Chia-Hsiang Hsueh
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jessica A Hellyer
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Hyung Wook Park
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA. ; Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Young Soo Lee
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA. ; Division of Cardiology, College of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jason Garlie
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Patrick Onkka
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anisiia T Doytchinova
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - John B Garner
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Jheel Patel
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Lan S Chen
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Michael C Fishbein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Everett
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Shien-Fong Lin
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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New insights in the neuroanatomy of the human adult superior hypogastric plexus and hypogastric nerves. Auton Neurosci 2015; 189:60-7. [PMID: 25704391 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2015.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Revised: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The superior hypogastric plexus (SHP) is an autonomic plexus, located ventrally to the abdominal aorta and its bifurcation, innervating pelvic viscera. It is classically described as being composed of merely sympathetic fibres. However, post-operative complications after surgery damaging the peri-aortic retroperitoneal compartment suggest the existence of parasympathetic fibres. This immunohistochemical study describes the neuroanatomical composition of the human mature SHP. MATERIAL AND METHODS Eight pre-determined retroperitoneal localizations including the lumbar splanchnic nerves, the SHP and the HN were studied in four human cadavers. Control tissues (white rami, grey rami, vagus nerve, splanchnic nerves, sympathetic ganglia, sympathetic chain and spinal nerve) were collected to verify the results. All tissues were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and antibodies S100, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and myelin basic protein (MBP) to identify pre- and postganglionic parasympathetic and sympathetic nerve fibres. RESULTS All tissues comprising the SHP and hypogastric nerves (HN) showed isolated expression of TH, VIP and MBP, revealing the presence of three types of fibres: postganglionic adrenergic sympathetic fibres marked by TH, unmyelinated VIP-positive fibres and myelinated preganglionic fibres marked by MBP. Analysis of control tissues confirmed that TH, VIP and MBP were well usable to interpret the neurochemical composition of the SHP and HN. CONCLUSION The human SHP and HN contain sympathetic and most likely postganglionic parasympathetic fibres. The origin of these fibres is still to be elucidated, however surgical damage in the peri-aortic retroperitoneal compartment may cause pelvic organ dysfunction related to both parasympathetic and sympathetic denervation.
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22
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Chen PS, Chen LS, Fishbein MC, Lin SF, Nattel S. Role of the autonomic nervous system in atrial fibrillation: pathophysiology and therapy. Circ Res 2014; 114:1500-15. [PMID: 24763467 PMCID: PMC4043633 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.114.303772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 506] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Autonomic nervous system activation can induce significant and heterogeneous changes of atrial electrophysiology and induce atrial tachyarrhythmias, including atrial tachycardia and atrial fibrillation (AF). The importance of the autonomic nervous system in atrial arrhythmogenesis is also supported by circadian variation in the incidence of symptomatic AF in humans. Methods that reduce autonomic innervation or outflow have been shown to reduce the incidence of spontaneous or induced atrial arrhythmias, suggesting that neuromodulation may be helpful in controlling AF. In this review, we focus on the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and the pathophysiology of AF and the potential benefit and limitations of neuromodulation in the management of this arrhythmia. We conclude that autonomic nerve activity plays an important role in the initiation and maintenance of AF, and modulating autonomic nerve function may contribute to AF control. Potential therapeutic applications include ganglionated plexus ablation, renal sympathetic denervation, cervical vagal nerve stimulation, baroreflex stimulation, cutaneous stimulation, novel drug approaches, and biological therapies. Although the role of the autonomic nervous system has long been recognized, new science and new technologies promise exciting prospects for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Sheng Chen
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Lan S. Chen
- Department of Neurology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Michael C. Fishbein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Shien-Fong Lin
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Deartment of Medicine, Montreal Heart Institute and Université de Montréal
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23
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Seki A, Green HR, Lee TD, Hong L, Tan J, Vinters HV, Chen PS, Fishbein MC. Sympathetic nerve fibers in human cervical and thoracic vagus nerves. Heart Rhythm 2014; 11:1411-7. [PMID: 24768897 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2014.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy has been used for chronic heart failure and is believed to improve imbalance of autonomic control by increasing parasympathetic activity. Although it is known that there is neural communication between the VN and the cervical sympathetic trunk, there are few data regarding the quantity and/or distribution of the sympathetic components within the vagus nerve (VN). OBJECTIVE To examine the sympathetic components within the human VN and correlate them with the presence of cardiac and neurologic diseases. METHODS We performed immunohistochemistry on 31 human cervical and thoracic VNs (total 104 VNs) from autopsies and reviewed the patients' records. We correlated the quantity of sympathetic nerve fibers within the VNs with cardiovascular and neurologic disease states. RESULTS All 104 VNs contain tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive (sympathetic) nerve fibers; the mean TH-positive areas were 5.47% in the right cervical VN, 3.97% in the left cervical VN, 5.11% in the right thoracic VN, and 4.20% in the left thoracic VN. The distribution of TH-positive nerve fibers varied from case to case: central, peripheral, or scattered throughout nerve bundles. No statistically significant differences in nerve morphology were seen between diseases in which VNS is considered effective (depression and chronic heart failure) and other cardiovascular diseases or neurodegenerative disease. CONCLUSION Human VNs contain sympathetic nerve fibers. The sympathetic component within the VN could play a role in physiologic effects reported with VNS. The recognition of sympathetic nerve fibers in the VNs may lead to better understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms of VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Seki
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Hunter R Green
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Thomas D Lee
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - LongSheng Hong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jian Tan
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Harry V Vinters
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Peng-Sheng Chen
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology, Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | - Michael C Fishbein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
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24
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Onkka P, Maskoun W, Rhee KS, Hellyer J, Patel J, Tan J, Chen LS, Vinters HV, Fishbein MC, Chen PS. Sympathetic nerve fibers and ganglia in canine cervical vagus nerves: localization and quantitation. Heart Rhythm 2012; 10:585-91. [PMID: 23246597 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2012.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical vagal nerve (CVN) stimulation may improve left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with heart failure. OBJECTIVES To test the hypothesis that sympathetic structures are present in the CVN and to describe the location and quantitate these sympathetic components of the CVN. METHODS We performed immunohistochemical studies of the CVN from 11 normal dogs and simultaneously recorded stellate ganglion nerve activity, left thoracic vagal nerve activity, and subcutaneous electrocardiogram in 2 additional dogs. RESULTS A total of 28 individual nerve bundles were present in the CVNs of the first 11 dogs, with an average of 1.87±1.06 per dog. All CVNs contain tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (sympathetic) nerves, with a total cross-sectional area of 0.97±0.38 mm(2). The sympathetic nerves were nonmyelinated, typically located at the periphery of the nerve bundles and occupied 0.03%-2.80% of the CVN cross-sectional area. Cholineacetyltransferase-positive nerve fibers occupied 12.90%-42.86% of the CVN cross-sectional areas. Ten of 11 CVNs showed tyrosine hydroxylase and cholineacetyltransferase colocalization. In 2 dogs with nerve recordings, we documented heart rate acceleration during spontaneous vagal nerve activity in the absence of stellate ganglion nerve activity. CONCLUSIONS Sympathetic nerve fibers are invariably present in the CVNs of normal dogs and occupy in average up to 2.8% of the cross-sectional area. Because sympathetic nerve fibers are present in the periphery of the CVNs, they may be susceptible to activation by electrical stimulation. Spontaneous activation of the sympathetic component of the vagal nerve may accelerate the heart rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Onkka
- Krannert Institute of Cardiology and Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, IN 46202-1228, USA
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