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Huguenard A, Tan G, Johnson G, Adamek M, Coxon A, Kummer T, Osbun J, Vellimana A, Limbrick Jr D, Zipfel G, Brunner P, Leuthardt E. Non-invasive Auricular Vagus nerve stimulation for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (NAVSaH): Protocol for a prospective, triple-blinded, randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301154. [PMID: 39178291 PMCID: PMC11343404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammation has been implicated in driving the morbidity associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Despite understanding the important role of inflammation in morbidity following SAH, there is no current effective way to modulate this deleterious response. There is a critical need for a novel approach to immunomodulation that can be safely, rapidly, and effectively deployed in SAH patients. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) provides a non-pharmacologic approach to immunomodulation, with prior studies demonstrating VNS can reduce systemic inflammatory markers, and VNS has had early success treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, sepsis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. The aim of the Non-invasive Auricular Vagus nerve stimulation for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (NAVSaH) trial is to translate the use of non-invasive transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS) to spontaneous SAH, with our central hypothesis being that implementing taVNS in the acute period following spontaneous SAH attenuates the expected inflammatory response to hemorrhage and curtails morbidity associated with inflammatory-mediated clinical endpoints. MATERIALS AND METHODS The overall objectives for the NAHSaH trial are to 1) Define the impact that taVNS has on SAH-induced inflammatory markers in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 2) Determine whether taVNS following SAH reduces radiographic vasospasm, and 3) Determine whether taVNS following SAH reduces chronic hydrocephalus. Following presentation to a single enrollment site, enrolled SAH patients are randomly assigned twice daily treatment with either taVNS or sham stimulation for the duration of their intensive care unit stay. Blood and CSF are drawn before initiation of treatment sessions, and then every three days during a patient's hospital stay. Primary endpoints include change in the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid between day 1 and day 13, rate of radiographic vasospasm, and rate of requirement for long-term CSF diversion via a ventricular shunt. Secondary outcomes include exploratory analyses of a panel of additional cytokines, number and type of hospitalized acquired infections, duration of external ventricular drain in days, interventions required for vasospasm, continuous physiology data before, during, and after treatment sessions, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, and modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) at admission, discharge, and each at follow-up appointment for up to two years following SAH. DISCUSSION Inflammation plays a central role in morbidity following SAH. This NAVSaH trial is innovative because it diverges from the pharmacologic status quo by harnessing a novel non-invasive neuromodulatory approach and its known anti-inflammatory effects to alter the pathophysiology of SAH. The investigation of a new, effective, and rapidly deployable intervention in SAH offers a new route to improve outcomes following SAH. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials Registered, NCT04557618. Registered on September 21, 2020, and the first patient was enrolled on January 4, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Huguenard
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Gansheng Tan
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Gabrielle Johnson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Markus Adamek
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Andrew Coxon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Terrance Kummer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Joshua Osbun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Ananth Vellimana
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - David Limbrick Jr
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Gregory Zipfel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Peter Brunner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Eric Leuthardt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
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Tan G, Adams J, Donovan K, Demarest P, Willie JT, Brunner P, Gorlewicz JL, Leuthardt EC. Does Vibrotactile Stimulation of the Auricular Vagus Nerve Enhance Working Memory? A Behavioral and Physiological Investigation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.24.586365. [PMID: 38585960 PMCID: PMC10996508 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.24.586365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Background Working memory is essential to a wide range of cognitive functions and activities. Transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS) is a promising method to improve working memory performance. However, the feasibility and scalability of electrical stimulation are constrained by several limitations, such as auricular discomfort and inconsistent electrical contact. Objective We aimed to develop a novel and practical method, vibrotactile taVNS, to improve working memory. Further, we investigated its effects on arousal, measured by skin conductance and pupil diameter. Method This study included 20 healthy participants. Behavioral response, skin conductance, and eye tracking data were concurrently recorded while the participants performed N-back tasks under three conditions: vibrotactile taVNS delivered to the cymba concha, earlobe (sham control), and no stimulation (baseline control). Results In 4-back tasks, which demand maximal working memory capacity, active vibrotactile taVNS significantly improved the performance metric d ' compared to the baseline but not to the sham. Moreover, we found that the reduction rate of d ' with increasing task difficulty was significantly smaller during vibrotactile taVNS sessions than in both baseline and sham conditions. Arousal, measured as skin conductance and pupil diameter, declined over the course of the tasks. Vibrotactile taVNS rescued this arousal decline, leading to arousal levels corresponding to optimal working memory levels. Moreover, pupil diameter and skin conductance level were higher during high-cognitive-load tasks when vibrotactile taVNS was delivered to the concha compared to baseline and sham. Conclusion Our findings suggest that vibrotactile taVNS modulates the arousal pathway and could be a potential intervention for enhancing working memory. Highlights Vibrotactile stimulation of the auricular vagus nerve increases general arousal.Vibrotactile stimulation of the auricular vagus nerve mitigates arousal decreases as subjects continuously perform working memory tasks.6 Hz Vibrotactile auricular vagus nerve stimulation is a potential intervention for enhancing working memory performance.
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Huguenard AL, Tan G, Johnson GW, Adamek M, Coxon AT, Kummer TT, Osbun JW, Vellimana AK, Limbrick DD, Zipfel GJ, Brunner P, Leuthardt EC. Non-invasive Auricular Vagus nerve stimulation for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (NAVSaH): Protocol for a prospective, triple-blinded, randomized controlled trial. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.03.18.24304239. [PMID: 38562875 PMCID: PMC10984059 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.18.24304239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Background Inflammation has been implicated in driving the morbidity associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Despite understanding the important role of inflammation in morbidity following SAH, there is no current effective way to modulate this deleterious response. There is a critical need for a novel approach to immunomodulation that can be safely, rapidly, and effectively deployed in SAH patients. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) provides a non-pharmacologic approach to immunomodulation, with prior studies demonstrating VNS can reduce systemic inflammatory markers, and VNS has had early success treating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, sepsis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. The aim of the Non-invasive Auricular Vagus nerve stimulation for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (NAVSaH) trial is to translate the use of non-invasive transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS) to spontaneous SAH, with our central hypothesis being that implementing taVNS in the acute period following spontaneous SAH attenuates the expected inflammatory response to hemorrhage and curtails morbidity associated with inflammatory-mediated clinical endpoints. Materials and methods The overall objectives for the NAHSaH trial are to 1) Define the impact that taVNS has on SAH-induced inflammatory markers in the plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 2) Determine whether taVNS following SAH reduces radiographic vasospasm, and 3) Determine whether taVNS following SAH reduces chronic hydrocephalus. Following presentation to a single enrollment site, enrolled SAH patients are randomly assigned twice daily treatment with either taVNS or sham stimulation for the duration of their intensive care unit stay. Blood and CSF are drawn before initiation of treatment sessions, and then every three days during a patient's hospital stay. Primary endpoints include change in the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid between day 1 and day 13, rate of radiographic vasospasm, and rate of requirement for long-term CSF diversion via a ventricular shunt. Secondary outcomes include exploratory analyses of a panel of additional cytokines, number and type of hospitalized acquired infections, duration of external ventricular drain in days, interventions required for vasospasm, continuous physiology data before, during, and after treatment sessions, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, and modified Rankin Scale score (mRS) at admission, discharge, and each at follow-up appointment for up to two years following SAH. Discussion Inflammation plays a central role in morbidity following SAH. This NAVSaH trial is innovative because it diverges from the pharmacologic status quo by harnessing a novel non-invasive neuromodulatory approach and its known anti-inflammatory effects to alter the pathophysiology of SAH. The investigation of a new, effective, and rapidly deployable intervention in SAH offers a new route to improve outcomes following SAH. Trial registration Clinical Trials Registered, NCT04557618. Registered on September 21, 2020, and the first patient was enrolled on January 4, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L Huguenard
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gansheng Tan
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gabrielle W Johnson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Markus Adamek
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Andrew T Coxon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Terrance T Kummer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Joshua W Osbun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ananth K Vellimana
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - David D. Limbrick
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gregory J Zipfel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Peter Brunner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric C Leuthardt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Hesampour F, Bernstein CN, Ghia JE. Brain-Gut Axis: Invasive and Noninvasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation, Limitations, and Potential Therapeutic Approaches. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2024; 30:482-495. [PMID: 37738641 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic relapsing condition with no known etiology and is characterized by disrupted gut homeostasis, chronic inflammation, and ulcerative lesions. Although current treatments can reduce disease activity, IBD frequently recurs once treatments are discontinued, indicating that treatments are ineffective in providing long-term remission. The lack of responsiveness and reluctance of some affected persons to take medications because of potential adverse effects has enhanced the need for novel therapeutic approaches. The vagus nerve (VN) is likely important in the pathogenesis of IBD, considering the decreased activity of the parasympathetic nervous system, especially the VN, and the impaired interaction between the enteric nervous system and central nervous system in patients with IBD. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in various inflammatory disorders, including IBD, by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines by immune cells. It has been suggested that stimulating the vagus nerve to induce its anti-inflammatory effects may be a potential therapeutic approach for IBD. Noninvasive techniques for VNS have been developed. Considering the importance of VN function in the brain-gut axis, VNS is a promising treatment option for IBD. This review discusses the potential therapeutic advantages and drawbacks of VNS, particularly the use of noninvasive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Charles N Bernstein
- Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinical and Research Centre, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Jean-Eric Ghia
- Immunology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinical and Research Centre, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
- Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
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5
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Tan G, Adams J, Donovan K, Demarest P, Willie JT, Brunner P, Gorlewicz JL, Leuthardt EC. Does vibrotactile stimulation of the auricular vagus nerve enhance working memory? A behavioral and physiological investigation. Brain Stimul 2024; 17:460-468. [PMID: 38593972 PMCID: PMC11268363 DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2024.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Working memory is essential to a wide range of cognitive functions and activities. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a promising method to improve working memory performance. However, the feasibility and scalability of electrical stimulation are constrained by several limitations, such as auricular discomfort and inconsistent electrical contact. OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop a novel and practical method, vibrotactile taVNS, to improve working memory. Further, we investigated its effects on arousal, measured by skin conductance and pupil diameter. METHOD This study included 20 healthy participants. Behavioral response, skin conductance, and eye tracking data were concurrently recorded while the participants performed N-back tasks under three conditions: vibrotactile taVNS delivered to the cymba concha, earlobe (sham control), and no stimulation (baseline control). RESULTS In 4-back tasks, which demand maximal working memory capacity, active vibrotactile taVNS significantly improved the performance metric d' compared to the baseline but not to the sham. Moreover, we found that the reduction rate of d' with increasing task difficulty was significantly smaller during vibrotactile taVNS sessions than in both baseline and sham conditions. Arousal, measured as skin conductance and pupil diameter, declined over the course of the tasks. Vibrotactile taVNS rescued this arousal decline, leading to arousal levels corresponding to optimal working memory levels. Moreover, pupil diameter and skin conductance level were higher during high-cognitive-load tasks when vibrotactile taVNS was delivered to the concha compared to baseline and sham. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that vibrotactile taVNS modulates the arousal pathway and could be a potential intervention for enhancing working memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gansheng Tan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Josh Adams
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Kara Donovan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Phillip Demarest
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jon T Willie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Peter Brunner
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jenna L Gorlewicz
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, Saint Louis University, MO, USA
| | - Eric C Leuthardt
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, MO, USA; Division of Neurotechnology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Schiweck C, Sausmekat S, Zhao T, Jacobsen L, Reif A, Edwin Thanarajah S. No consistent evidence for the anti-inflammatory effect of vagus nerve stimulation in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 116:237-258. [PMID: 38070618 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has been identified as an innovative immunosuppressive treatment strategy in rodent studies. However, its' clinical potential is still unclear. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether VNS can reduce inflammatory proteins and/or immune cells in humans, through a pre-registered systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines. The databases Cochrane, Pubmed and World of Knowledge were searched in duplicate up to the 3rd of March 2022 and publications from identified clinical trial registrations were identified until 20th of August 2023. Studies were included if they provided peer-reviewed data for humans who received VNS as short-term (<=1 day) or long-term (>=2 days-365 days) stimulation and reported at least one cytokine or immune cell after treatment.Screening of title, abstract, full text, and data extraction was performed in duplicate by two independent reviewers. Data were pooled using a random-effects model and meta-regression was performed for moderating factors. Reporting bias was assessed. The standardized mean difference (Hedge's g) was used to indicate overall differences of cytokine data (mean and standard deviation or median and interquartile range at the study level) to test our a-priori hypothesis. The systematic review of 36 studies with 1135 participants (355 receiving a control/sham condition and 780 receiving VNS) revealed anti-inflammatory effects of VNS for cytokines in several reports, albeit often in subgroup analyses, but our meta-analyses of 26 studies did not confirm these findings. Although most cytokines were numerically reduced, the reduction did not reach statistical significance after VNS: not in the between-group comparisons (short-term: TNF-α: g = -0.21, p = 0.359; IL-6: g = -0.94, p = 0.112; long-term: TNF-α: g = -0.13, p = 0.196; IL-6: g = -0.67, p = 0.306); nor in the within-study designs (short-term: TNF-α: g = -0.45, p = 0.630; IL-6: g = 0.28, p = 0.840; TNF-α: g = -0.53, p = 0.297; IL-6:g = -0.02, p = 0.954). Only the subgroup analysis of 4 long-term studies with acute inflammation was significant: VNS decreased CRP significantly more than sham stimulation. Additional subgroup analyses including stimulation duration, stimulation method (invasive/non-invasive), immune stimulation, and study quality did not alter results. However, heterogeneity was high, and most studies had poor to fair quality. Given the low number of studies for each disease, a disease-specific analysis was not possible. In conclusion, while numeric effects were reported in individual studies, the current evidence does not substantiate the claim that VNS impacts inflammatory cytokines in humans. However, it may be beneficial during acute inflammatory events. To assess its full potential, high-quality studies and technological advances are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Schiweck
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sonja Sausmekat
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Tong Zhao
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Leona Jacobsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sharmili Edwin Thanarajah
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Goethe University Frankfurt, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Metabolism Research, Cologne, Germany.
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Sahn B, Pascuma K, Kohn N, Tracey KJ, Markowitz JF. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation attenuates inflammatory bowel disease in children: a proof-of-concept clinical trial. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:23. [PMID: 37849000 PMCID: PMC10583463 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00124-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation is an investigational anti-inflammatory therapy targeting the nervous system to modulate immune activity. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous auricular VNS (ta-VNS) in patients with pediatric-onset Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). METHODS Participants were 10-21 years of age with mild/moderate CD or UC and fecal calprotectin (FC) > 200 ug/g within 4 weeks of study entry. Subjects were randomized to receive either ta-VNS targeting the cymba conchae of the external left ear, or sham stimulation, of 5 min duration once daily for a 2-week period, followed by a cross over to the alternative stimulation for an additional 2 weeks. At week 4, all subjects received ta-VNS of 5 min duration twice daily until week 16. Primary study endpoints were clinical remission, and a ≥ 50% reduction in FC level from baseline to week 16. Heart rate variability measurements and patient-reported outcome questionnaires were completed during interval and week 16 assessments. RESULTS Twenty-two subjects were enrolled and analyzed (10 CD, 12 UC). Six of 10 with CD had a wPCDAI > 12.5 and 6/12 with UC had a PUCAI > 10 at baseline, correlating to mild to moderate symptom activity. Among the 12 subjects with active symptomatic disease indices at baseline, clinical remission was achieved in 3/6 (50%) with CD and 2/6 (33%) with UC at week 16. Despite all subjects having FC levels ≥ 200 within 4 weeks of enrollment, five subjects (4 UC, 1 CD) had FC levels < 200 at the baseline visit and were excluded from the FC analysis. Of the remaining 17, median baseline FC was 907 µg/g (IQR 411-2,120). At week 16, 11/17 (64.7%) of those with baseline FC ≥ 200 had a ≥ 50% reduction in FC (95% CI 38.3-85.8). In the UC subjects, there was an 81% median reduction in FC vs baseline (833 µg/g; p = 0.03) while in the CD subjects, median reduction in FC at 16 weeks was 51% (357 µg/g; p = 0.09). There were no safety concerns. CONCLUSION Noninvasive ta-VNS attenuated signs and symptoms in a pediatric cohort with mild to moderate inflammatory bowel disease. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03863704-Date of registration 3/4/2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Sahn
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Liver Diseases, & Nutrition, Steven & Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center, Northwell Health, 1991 Marcus Ave, Suite M100, New Hyde Park, NY, 11042, USA.
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA.
| | - Kristine Pascuma
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Liver Diseases, & Nutrition, Steven & Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center, Northwell Health, 1991 Marcus Ave, Suite M100, New Hyde Park, NY, 11042, USA
| | - Nina Kohn
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Biostatistics Unit, Office of Academic Affairs, New Hyde Park, NY, USA
| | - Kevin J Tracey
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - James F Markowitz
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Liver Diseases, & Nutrition, Steven & Alexandra Cohen Children's Medical Center, Northwell Health, 1991 Marcus Ave, Suite M100, New Hyde Park, NY, 11042, USA
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Zouali M. Pharmacological and Electroceutical Targeting of the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Pathway in Autoimmune Diseases. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1089. [PMID: 37631004 PMCID: PMC10459025 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081089] [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: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Continuous dialogue between the immune system and the brain plays a key homeostatic role in various immune responses to environmental cues. Several functions are under the control of the vagus nerve-based inflammatory reflex, a physiological mechanism through which nerve signals regulate immune functions. In the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, the vagus nerve, its pivotal neurotransmitter acetylcholine, together with the corresponding receptors play a key role in modulating the immune response of mammals. Through communications of peripheral nerves with immune cells, it modulates proliferation and differentiation activities of various immune cell subsets. As a result, this pathway represents a potential target for treating autoimmune diseases characterized by overt inflammation and a decrease in vagal tone. Consistently, converging observations made in both animal models and clinical trials revealed that targeting the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway using pharmacologic approaches can provide beneficial effects. In parallel, bioelectronic medicine has recently emerged as an alternative approach to managing systemic inflammation. In several studies, nerve electrostimulation was reported to be clinically relevant in reducing chronic inflammation in autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. In the future, these new approaches could represent a major therapeutic strategy for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moncef Zouali
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404, Taiwan
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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: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [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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10
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Rodriguez L, Pou C, Lakshmikanth T, Zhang J, Mugabo CH, Wang J, Mikes J, Olin A, Chen Y, Rorbach J, Juto JE, Li TQ, Julin P, Brodin P. Achieving symptom relief in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis by targeting the neuro-immune interface and optimizing disease tolerance. OXFORD OPEN IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 4:iqad003. [PMID: 37255930 PMCID: PMC10148714 DOI: 10.1093/oxfimm/iqad003] [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: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) previously also known as chronic fatigue syndrome is a heterogeneous, debilitating syndrome of unknown etiology responsible for long-lasting disability in millions of patients worldwide. The most well-known symptom of ME is post-exertional malaise, but many patients also experience autonomic dysregulation, cranial nerve dysfunction and signs of immune system activation. Many patients also report a sudden onset of disease following an infection. The brainstem is a suspected focal point in ME pathogenesis and patients with structural impairment to the brainstem often show ME-like symptoms. The brainstem is also where the vagus nerve originates, a critical neuro-immune interface and mediator of the inflammatory reflex which regulate systemic inflammation. Here, we report the results of a randomized, placebo-controlled trial using intranasal mechanical stimulation targeting nerve endings in the nasal cavity, likely from the trigeminal nerve, possibly activating additional centers in the brainstem of ME patients and correlating with a ∼30% reduction in overall symptom scores after 8 weeks of treatment. By performing longitudinal, systems-level monitoring of the blood immune system in these patients, we uncover signs of chronic immune activation in ME, as well as immunological correlates of improvement that center around gut-homing immune cells and reduced inflammation. The mechanisms of symptom relief remain to be determined, but transcriptional analyses suggest an upregulation of disease tolerance mechanisms. We believe that these results are suggestive of ME as a condition explained by a maladaptive disease tolerance response following infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Rodriguez
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17121, Sweden
| | | | | | - Jingdian Zhang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17176, Sweden
- Max Planck Institute Biology of Ageing—Karolinska Institutet Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17176, Sweden
| | | | - Jun Wang
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17121, Sweden
| | - Jaromir Mikes
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17121, Sweden
| | - Axel Olin
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17121, Sweden
| | - Yang Chen
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17121, Sweden
| | - Joanna Rorbach
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17176, Sweden
- Max Planck Institute Biology of Ageing—Karolinska Institutet Laboratory, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17176, Sweden
| | - Jan-Erik Juto
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17177, Sweden
| | - Tie Qiang Li
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17177, Sweden
- Department of Medical Radiation Physics and Nuclear Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Solna 17176, Sweden
| | - Per Julin
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna 17176, Sweden
- Neurological Rehabilitation Clinic, Stora Sköndal, Sköndal 12864, Sweden
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11
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Stefanov K, Al-Wasity S, Parkinson JT, Waiter GD, Cavanagh J, Basu N. Brain mapping inflammatory-arthritis-related fatigue in the pursuit of novel therapeutics. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2023; 5:e99-e109. [PMID: 38251542 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(23)00007-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite developments in pharmacological treatments, chronic fatigue is an unresolved issue for most people with inflammatory arthritis that severely disrupts their personal and working lives. Fatigue in these patients is not strongly linked with peripheral disease activity but is associated with CNS-derived symptoms such as chronic pain, sleep disturbance, and depression. Therefore, a neurobiological basis should be considered when pursuing novel fatigue-specific therapeutics. In this Review, we focus on clinical imaging biomarkers that map candidate brain regions and are crucial in fatigue pathophysiology. We then evaluate neuromodulation techniques that could affect these candidate brain regions and are potential treatment strategies for fatigue in patients with inflammatory arthritis. We delineate work that is still required for neuroimaging and neuromodulation to eventually become part of a clinical pathway to treat and manage fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Stefanov
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Salim Al-Wasity
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK; College of Engineering, University of Wasit, Al Kūt, Iraq
| | - Joel T Parkinson
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Gordon D Waiter
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Jonathan Cavanagh
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Neil Basu
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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12
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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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13
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Autoimmune autonomic nervous system imbalance and conditions: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, silicone breast implants, COVID and post-COVID syndrome, sick building syndrome, post-orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autoimmune diseases and autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants. Clin Exp Rheumatol 2023; 22:103230. [PMID: 36347462 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, silicone breast implants syndrome (SBIs), COVID and post-COVID syndrome (PCS), sick building syndrome (SBS), post-orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), autoimmune diseases and autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) are frequently accompanied by clinical symptoms characteristic for dysautonomia: severe fatigue, dizziness, fogginess, memory loss, dry mouth and eyes, hearing dysfunction, tachycardia etc. The recent discovery of an imbalance of autoantibodies against G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR) in some autoimmune diseases, post-COVID syndrome, SBIs allowed researchers to assume the novel mechanism in these conditions - autoimmune autonomic nervous system imbalance. In this review, all data published on an imbalance of autoantibodies against GPCR, clinical symptoms and pathogenic mechanisms in CFS, Fibromyalgia, SBIs, COVID and PCS, SBS, POTS, and some autoimmune diseases were analyzed. Possible criteria to diagnose the autoimmune autonomic nervous system imbalance were created.
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14
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Malkova AM, Shoenfeld Y. WITHDRAWN: Autoimmune autonomic nervous system imbalance and conditions: Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, silicone breast implants, COVID and post-COVID syndrome, sick building syndrome, post-orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, autoimmune diseases and autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants. Autoimmun Rev 2022:103231. [PMID: 36356798 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103231] [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: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The Publisher regrets that this article is an accidental duplication of an article that has already been published, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autrev.2022.103230. The duplicate article has therefore been withdrawn. The full Elsevier Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://www.elsevier.com/about/our-business/policies/article-withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Malkova
- Zabludowicz Center of autoimmunity, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel.
| | - Y Shoenfeld
- Zabludowicz Center of autoimmunity, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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15
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Pavlov VA, Tracey KJ. Bioelectronic medicine: Preclinical insights and clinical advances. Neuron 2022; 110:3627-3644. [PMID: 36174571 PMCID: PMC10155266 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The nervous system maintains homeostasis and health. Homeostatic disruptions underlying the pathobiology of many diseases can be controlled by bioelectronic devices targeting CNS and peripheral neural circuits. New insights into the regulatory functions of the nervous system and technological developments in bioelectronics drive progress in the emerging field of bioelectronic medicine. Here, we provide an overview of key aspects of preclinical research, translation, and clinical advances in bioelectronic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin A Pavlov
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Kevin J Tracey
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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16
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Jensen MK, Andersen SS, Andersen SS, Liboriussen CH, Kristensen S, Jochumsen M. Modulating Heart Rate Variability through Deep Breathing Exercises and Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation: A Study in Healthy Participants and in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis or Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:7884. [PMID: 36298234 PMCID: PMC9607552 DOI: 10.3390/s22207884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are associated with an impaired autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve function. Electrical or physiological (deep breathing-DB) vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) could be a potential treatment approach, but no direct comparison has been made. In this study, the effect of transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS) and DB on vagal tone was compared in healthy participants and RA or SLE patients. The vagal tone was estimated using time-domain heart-rate variability (HRV) parameters. Forty-two healthy participants and 52 patients performed 30 min of DB and 30 min of taVNS on separate days. HRV was recorded before and immediately after each intervention. For the healthy participants, all HRV parameters increased after DB (SDNN + RMSSD: 21-46%), while one HRV parameter increased after taVNS (SDNN: 16%). For the patients, all HRV parameters increased after both DB (17-31%) and taVNS (18-25%), with no differences between the two types of VNS. DB was associated with the largest elevation of the HRV parameters in healthy participants, while both types of VNS led to elevated HRV parameters in the patients. The findings support a potential use of VNS as a new treatment approach, but the clinical effects need to be investigated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Salome Kristensen
- Department of Rheumatology, Aalborg University Hospital, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Mads Jochumsen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
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17
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Kelly MJ, Breathnach C, Tracey KJ, Donnelly SC. Manipulation of the inflammatory reflex as a therapeutic strategy. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100696. [PMID: 35858588 PMCID: PMC9381415 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is the efferent arm of the inflammatory reflex, a neural circuit through which the CNS can modulate peripheral immune responses. Signals communicated via the vagus and splenic nerves use acetylcholine, produced by Choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)+ T cells, to downregulate the inflammatory actions of macrophages expressing α7 nicotinic receptors. Pre-clinical studies using transgenic animals, cholinergic agonists, vagotomy, and vagus nerve stimulation have demonstrated this pathway's role and therapeutic potential in numerous inflammatory diseases. In this review, we summarize what is understood about the inflammatory reflex. We also demonstrate how pre-clinical findings are being translated into promising clinical trials, and we draw particular attention to innovative bioelectronic methods of harnessing the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Kelly
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Kevin J Tracey
- Center for Biomedical Science and Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - Seamas C Donnelly
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
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18
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Czura CJ, Bikson M, Charvet L, Chen JDZ, Franke M, Fudim M, Grigsby E, Hamner S, Huston JM, Khodaparast N, Krames E, Simon BJ, Staats P, Vonck K. Neuromodulation Strategies to Reduce Inflammation and Improve Lung Complications in COVID-19 Patients. Front Neurol 2022; 13:897124. [PMID: 35911909 PMCID: PMC9329660 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.897124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, races across academia and industry have been initiated to identify and develop disease modifying or preventative therapeutic strategies has been initiated. The primary focus has been on pharmacological treatment of the immune and respiratory system and the development of a vaccine. The hyperinflammatory state ("cytokine storm") observed in many cases of COVID-19 indicates a prognostically negative disease progression that may lead to respiratory distress, multiple organ failure, shock, and death. Many critically ill patients continue to be at risk for significant, long-lasting morbidity or mortality. The human immune and respiratory systems are heavily regulated by the central nervous system, and intervention in the signaling of these neural pathways may permit targeted therapeutic control of excessive inflammation and pulmonary bronchoconstriction. Several technologies, both invasive and non-invasive, are available and approved for clinical use, but have not been extensively studied in treatment of the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. This manuscript provides an overview of the role of the nervous system in inflammation and respiration, the current understanding of neuromodulatory techniques from preclinical and clinical studies and provides a rationale for testing non-invasive neuromodulation to modulate acute systemic inflammation and respiratory dysfunction caused by SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other pathogens. The authors of this manuscript have co-founded the International Consortium on Neuromodulation for COVID-19 to advocate for and support studies of these technologies in the current coronavirus pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marom Bikson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Leigh Charvet
- Department of Neurology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jiande D. Z. Chen
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Marat Fudim
- Division of Cardiology, Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | | | - Sam Hamner
- Cala Health, Burlingame, CA, United States
| | - Jared M. Huston
- Departments of Surgery and Science Education, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY, United States
| | | | - Elliot Krames
- Pacific Pain Treatment Center, Napa, CA, United States
| | | | - Peter Staats
- National Spine and Pain, ElectroCore, Inc., Jacksonville, FL, United States
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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19
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Schwartz RM, Shaam P, Williams MS, McCann-Pineo M, Ryniker L, Debnath S, Zanos TP. Understanding Mental Health Needs and Gathering Feedback on Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation as a Potential PTSD Treatment among 9/11 Responders Living with PTSD Symptoms 20 Years Later: A Qualitative Approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:4847. [PMID: 35457714 PMCID: PMC9029393 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains one of the most prevalent diagnoses of World Trade Center (WTC) 9/11 responders. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a potential treatment for PTSD, as it can downregulate activity in the brain, which is known to be related to stress responses and hyperarousal. To understand barriers and facilitators to engagement in mental health care and the feasibility and acceptability of using the taVNS device as a treatment for PTSD symptoms, a focus group was conducted among patients from the Queens WTC Health Program who had elevated symptoms of PTSD. The focus group discussion was recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Three themes and subthemes emerged: (1) the continued prevalence of mental health difficulties and systematic challenges to accessing care; (2) positive reception toward the taVNS device as a potential treatment option, including a discussion of how to increase usability; and (3) feedback on increasing the feasibility and acceptance of the research methodology associated with testing the device in a pilot clinical trial. The findings highlight the need for additional treatment options to reduce PTSD symptoms in this population and provide key formative phase input for the pilot clinical trial of taVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Schwartz
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA; (R.M.S.); (M.M.-P.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Northwell Health, 500 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
| | - Pooja Shaam
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA; (R.M.S.); (M.M.-P.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA
| | - Myia S. Williams
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Northwell Health, 500 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
- Department of Medicine, Northwell Health, 600 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - Molly McCann-Pineo
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA; (R.M.S.); (M.M.-P.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Northwell Health, 500 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
| | - Laura Ryniker
- Department of Occupational Medicine, Epidemiology and Prevention, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA; (R.M.S.); (M.M.-P.); (L.R.)
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Center for Traumatic Stress, Resilience and Recovery, Northwell Health, 175 Community Drive, Great Neck, NY 11021, USA
| | - Shubham Debnath
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA;
| | - Theodoros P. Zanos
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; (M.S.W.); (T.P.Z.)
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Northwell Health, 500 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA;
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20
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Mao Y, Chen C, Falahpour M, MacNiven KH, Heit G, Sharma V, Alataris K, Liu TT. Effects of Sub-threshold Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Cingulate Cortex and Insula Resting-state Functional Connectivity. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:862443. [PMID: 35496068 PMCID: PMC9048677 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.862443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), a non-invasive alternative to vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with implantable devices, has shown promise in treating disorders such as depression, migraine, and insomnia. Studies of these disorders with resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (rsfMRI) have found sustained changes in resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) in patients treated with low frequency (1-20 Hz) taVNS. A recent study has reported reductions in pain scores in patients with rheumatoid arthritis after a 12-week treatment of high-frequency (20 kHz) sub-threshold taVNS. However, no studies to date have examined the effects of high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS on rsFC. The objective of this study was to determine whether high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS induces changes in rsFC using seed regions from the cingulate cortex and insula, brain regions that play a key role in interoception and processing of pain. With a single-blind placebo-controlled repeated measures experimental design, rsfMRI scans were acquired before and after 15 min of either sub-threshold taVNS treatment or a sham control. Significant taVNS-related changes in functional connections to the cingulate cortex were detected between the anterior cingulate cortex and right superior temporal gyrus and between the midcingulate cortex and right inferior parietal lobule. In addition, significant changes in functional connections to the insula were detected between the posterior insula and right precuneus and between the anterior insula and right cuneus gyrus. These results suggest that high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS can lead to sustained effects on the rsFC of brain regions involved in interoception and processing of pain in a cohort of healthy subjects. This study lays the foundation for future rsfMRI studies of high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS in clinical populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixiang Mao
- Center for Functional MRI, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Conan Chen
- Center for Functional MRI, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Maryam Falahpour
- Center for Functional MRI, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Kelly H. MacNiven
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
- Nēsos Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | - Gary Heit
- Nēsos Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Vivek Sharma
- Nēsos Corporation, Redwood City, CA, United States
| | | | - Thomas T. Liu
- Center for Functional MRI, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
- Departments of Radiology, Psychiatry, and Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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21
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Bloom O, Tracey KJ, Pavlov VA. Exploring the vagus nerve and the inflammatory reflex for therapeutic benefit in chronic spinal cord injury. Curr Opin Neurol 2022; 35:249-257. [PMID: 35102123 PMCID: PMC9258775 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe features and implications of chronic systemic inflammation in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and to summarize the growing therapeutic possibilities to explore the vagus nerve-mediated inflammatory reflex in this context. RECENT FINDINGS The discovery of the inflammatory reflex provides a rationale to explore neuromodulation modalities, that is, electrical vagus nerve stimulation and pharmacological cholinergic modalities to regulate inflammation after SCI. SUMMARY Inflammation in individuals with SCI may negatively impact functional recovery and medical consequences after SCI. Exploring the potential of the vagus nerve-based inflammatory reflex to restore autonomic regulation and control inflammation may provide a novel approach for functional improvement in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ona Bloom
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Kevin J. Tracey
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Valentin A. Pavlov
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York, USA
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22
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Courties A, Deprouw C, Rousseau A, Berard L, Touati A, Kalsch J, Villevieille M, Maheu E, Miquel A, Simon T, Berenbaum F, Sellam J. Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in erosive hand osteoarthritis: protocol for the randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled ESTIVAL trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056169. [PMID: 35318234 PMCID: PMC8943744 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with erosive hand osteoarthritis (EHOA) experience pain and inflammation, two features that can be targeted by vagus nerve stimulation using electrical auricular transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS). A pilot study demonstrated the feasibility of the procedure, so we designed a randomised sham-controlled trial to determine the safety and efficacy of tVNS in EHOA. METHODS AND ANALYSIS ESTIVAL Study (Essai randomisé comparant la STImulation auriculaire transcutanée du nerf Vague versus sham stimulation dans l'Arthrose DigitaLe Érosive symptomatique et inflammatoire) is a superiority, randomised, double-blind sham-controlled trial comparing two parallel arms: active and sham tVNSs in a 1:1 ratio. Patients with symptomatic EHOA (score ≥40/100 mm on a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain of 0-100 mm) and inflammatory EHOA (≥1 clinical and ultrasonography-determined interphalangeal synovitis) are included in 18 hospital centres (17 rheumatology and 1 rehabilitation departments) in France. Active and sham tVNSs use an auricular electrode connected to the Vagustim device, with no electric current delivered in the sham group. Patients undergo stimulation for 20 min/day for 12 weeks. The follow-up visits take place at weeks 4, 8 and 12. The enrolment duration is 2 years and started in April 2021; 156 patients are scheduled to be included. The primary outcome is the difference in self-reported hand pain in the previous 48 hours measured on a VAS of 0-100 mm between baseline and week 12. Secondary outcomes include other pain outcomes, function, quality of life, serum biomarker levels, compliance and tolerance. For a subset of patients, MRI of the hand is performed at baseline and week 12 to compare the change in Outcome Measures in Rheumatology/Hand Osteoarthritis MRI Scoring System subscores. The primary analysis will be performed at the end of the study according to the intent-to-treat principle. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from the institutional review board (Comité de Protection des Personnes, 2020-A02213-36). All participants will be required to provide written informed consent. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT04520516; Pre-results. PROTOCOL VERSION AND NUMBER V.2 of 11 March 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Courties
- Sorbonne Universite, Paris, France
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Rhumatologie, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM UMR_S 938, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Camille Deprouw
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Rhumatologie, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Alexandra Rousseau
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Laurence Berard
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Amel Touati
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Johanna Kalsch
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Margaux Villevieille
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Emmanuel Maheu
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Rhumatologie, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Anne Miquel
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Radiologie, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Tabassome Simon
- Sorbonne Universite, Paris, France
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Unité de Recherche Clinique de l'Est Parisien (URC-Est), APHP, Paris, France
| | - Francis Berenbaum
- Sorbonne Universite, Paris, France
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Rhumatologie, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM UMR_S 938, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Jeremie Sellam
- Sorbonne Universite, Paris, France
- Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Service de Rhumatologie, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, INSERM UMR_S 938, APHP, Paris, France
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23
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Courties A, Deprouw C, Maheu E, Gibert E, Gottenberg JE, Champey J, Banneville B, Chesnel C, Amarenco G, Rousseau A, Berenbaum F, Sellam J. Effect of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Erosive Hand Osteoarthritis: Results from a Pilot Trial. J Clin Med 2022; 11:1087. [PMID: 35207369 PMCID: PMC8878516 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11041087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Beyond its effect on vegetative functions, the activation of the vagus nerve inhibits inflammation and reduces pain signaling. The aim of this open-label pilot study was to determine the efficacy and tolerance of transcutaneous auricular VNS (taVNS) on erosive hand osteoarthritis (EHOA) symptoms. Symptomatic EHOA patients with hand pain VAS ≥ 40/100 mm and ≥1 interphalangeal swollen joint(s) were included. The taVNS was performed for 4 weeks using an auricular electrode applied one hour per day and connected to a TENS device with pre-established settings. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by changes between baseline and at 4 weeks with hand pain VAS and the functional index FIHOA score, using a Wilcoxon t-test. The treatment tolerance was also evaluated. Eighteen patients (median age 69 years old, 83% women) were analyzed. At baseline, hand pain VAS was 60 mm [IQR 50; 78.2] and FIHOA 15 [10.7; 20.2]. After 4 weeks, taVNS significantly reduced hand pain VAS, with a median decrease of 23.5 mm [7.7; 37.2] (p = 0.001), as well as FIHOA, with a median decrease of 2 points [0.75; 5.2] (p = 0.01). No serious adverse events were reported. One patient stopped taVNS because of auricular discomfort. This first proof-of-concept trial indicated that taVNS is feasible and may decrease joint inflammation and clinical symptoms in EHOA, arguing for a randomized controlled study versus sham stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Courties
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR_S 938, 75012 Paris, France; (A.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Camille Deprouw
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 75012 Paris, France; (C.D.); (E.M.); (J.C.)
| | - Emmanuel Maheu
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 75012 Paris, France; (C.D.); (E.M.); (J.C.)
| | - Eric Gibert
- Cabinet de Rhumatologie, 94200 Ivry sur Seine, France;
| | - Jacques-Eric Gottenberg
- Service de Rhumatologie, Centre National de Référence Pour les Maladies Auto-Immunes Systémiques, Hôpital Universitaire de Strasbourg, Université de Strasbourg, 67200 Strasbourg, France;
| | - Julien Champey
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), 75012 Paris, France; (C.D.); (E.M.); (J.C.)
| | - Béatrice Banneville
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, 75013 Paris, France;
| | - Camille Chesnel
- GREEN Groupe de Recherche Clinique en Neuro-Urologie, GRC 01, Hôpital Tenon, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, 75020 Paris, France; (C.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Gérard Amarenco
- GREEN Groupe de Recherche Clinique en Neuro-Urologie, GRC 01, Hôpital Tenon, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, 75020 Paris, France; (C.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Alexandra Rousseau
- Unité de Recherche Clinique de l’Est Parisien (URC-Est), Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, 75012 Paris, France;
| | - Francis Berenbaum
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR_S 938, 75012 Paris, France; (A.C.); (F.B.)
| | - Jérémie Sellam
- Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, INSERM UMR_S 938, 75012 Paris, France; (A.C.); (F.B.)
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Merchant K, Zanos S, Datta-Chaudhuri T, Deutschman CS, Sethna CB. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) for the treatment of pediatric nephrotic syndrome: a pilot study. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:1. [PMID: 35078538 PMCID: PMC8790887 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-021-00084-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome (FRNS) and steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) are exposed to immunosuppressant medications with adverse side effects and variable efficacy. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) modulates the immune system via the inflammatory reflex and has become a therapy of interest for treating immune-mediated illnesses. METHODS An open-label, pilot study of tavNS for five minutes daily for 26 weeks via a TENS 7000 unit was conducted. RESULTS Three FRNS participants and 4 SRNS participants had a mean age of 9.5±4.2 years (range 4 to 17). Those with FRNS remained relapse-free during the study period; two participants continued treatment and remained in remission for 15 and 21 months, respectively. Three SRNS participants experienced a reduction in first morning UPC (mean of 42%, range 25-76%). Although UPC decreased (13.7%) in one SRNS participant with congenital nephrotic syndrome, UPC remained in nephrotic range. All but one participant (non-compliant with treatment) experienced a reduction in TNF (7.33pg/mL vs. 5.46pg/mL, p=0.03). No adverse events or side effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS taVNS was associated with clinical remission in FRNS and moderately reduced proteinuria in non-congenital SRNS. Further study of taVNS as a treatment for nephrotic syndrome in children is warranted. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04169776, Registered November 20, 2019, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04169776 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumail Merchant
- Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, New Hyde Park, United States, NY
| | - Stavros Zanos
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, United States, NY
| | | | - Clifford S Deutschman
- Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, New Hyde Park, United States, NY
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, United States, NY
| | - Christine B Sethna
- Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, New Hyde Park, United States, NY.
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, United States, NY.
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Tynan A, Brines M, Chavan SS. Control of inflammation using non-invasive neuromodulation: past, present and promise. Int Immunol 2022; 34:119-128. [PMID: 34558623 PMCID: PMC8783606 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxab073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The nervous system has been increasingly recognized as a novel and accessible target in the regulation of inflammation. The use of implantable and invasive devices targeting neural circuits has yielded successful results in clinical settings but does have some risk or adverse effects. Recent advances in technology and understanding of mechanistic pathways have opened new avenues of non-invasive neuromodulation. Through this review we discuss the novel research and outcomes of major modalities of non-invasive neuromodulation in the context of inflammation including transcutaneous electrical, magnetic and ultrasound neuromodulation. In addition to highlighting the scientific observations and breakthroughs, we discuss the underlying mechanisms and pathways for neural regulation of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aisling Tynan
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Michael Brines
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Sangeeta S Chavan
- Laboratory of Biomedical Science, Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY, USA
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26
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Yu Y, Ling J, Yu L, Liu P, Jiang M. Closed-Loop Transcutaneous Auricular Vagal Nerve Stimulation: Current Situation and Future Possibilities. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 15:785620. [PMID: 35058766 PMCID: PMC8763674 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.785620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Closed-loop (CL) transcutaneous auricular vagal nerve stimulation (taVNS) was officially proposed in 2020. This work firstly reviewed two existing CL-taVNS forms: motor-activated auricular vagus nerve stimulation (MAAVNS) and respiratory-gated auricular vagal afferent nerve stimulation (RAVANS), and then proposed three future CL-taVNS systems: electroencephalography (EEG)-gated CL-taVNS, electrocardiography (ECG)-gated CL-taVNS, and subcutaneous humoral signals (SHS)-gated CL-taVNS. We also highlighted the mechanisms, targets, technical issues, and patterns of CL-taVNS. By reviewing, proposing, and highlighting, this work might draw a preliminary blueprint for the development of CL-taVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutian Yu
- Acupuncture Department, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yutian Yu Min Jiang
| | - Jing Ling
- Department of Gynecology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lingling Yu
- Department of Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Pengfei Liu
- Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Min Jiang
- Acupuncture Department, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yutian Yu Min Jiang
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27
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Veiz E, Kieslich SK, Czesnik D, Herrmann-Lingen C, Meyer T, Staab J. Increased Concentrations of Circulating Interleukins following Non-Invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Results from a Randomized, Sham-Controlled, Crossover Study in Healthy Subjects. Neuroimmunomodulation 2022; 29:450-459. [PMID: 35576915 DOI: 10.1159/000524646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The vagus nerve constitutes the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system and plays an important role in the regulation of neuro-immune responses. Invasive stimulation of the vagus nerve produces anti-inflammatory effects; however, data on humoral immune responses of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) are rare. Therefore, the present study investigated changes in serum cytokine concentrations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) following a short-term, non-invasive stimulation of the vagus nerve. METHODS Whole blood samples were collected before and after a short-lived application of active tVNS at the inner tragus as well as sham stimulation of the earlobe. Cytokine serum concentrations were determined in two healthy cohorts of younger (n = 20) and older participants (n = 19). Differences between active and sham conditions were analyzed using linear mixed models and post hoc F tests after applying Yeo-Johnson power transformations. This trial was part of a larger study registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05007743). RESULTS In the young cohort, IL-6 and IL-1β concentrations were significantly increased after active stimulation, whereas they were slightly decreased after sham stimulation (IL-6: p = 0.012; IL-1β: p = 0.012). Likewise, in the older cohort, IL-1β and IL-8 concentrations were significantly elevated after active stimulation and reduced after sham application (IL-8: p = 0.007; IL-1β: p = 0.001). In contrast, circulating TNFα concentrations did not change significantly in either group. CONCLUSION Our results show that active tVNS led to an immediate increase in the serum concentrations of certain pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and/or IL-8 in two independent cohorts of healthy study participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Veiz
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Susann-Kristin Kieslich
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dirk Czesnik
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Herrmann-Lingen
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Meyer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany,
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany,
| | - Julia Staab
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Centre, Göttingen, Germany
- German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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Chen C, Mao Y, Falahpour M, MacNiven KH, Heit G, Sharma V, Alataris K, Liu TT. Effects of sub-threshold transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation on cerebral blood flow. Sci Rep 2021; 11:24018. [PMID: 34912017 PMCID: PMC8674256 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-03401-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) has shown promise as a non-invasive alternative to vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) with implantable devices, which has been used to treat drug-resistant epilepsy and treatment-resistant depression. Prior work has used functional MRI to investigate the brain response to taVNS, and more recent work has also demonstrated potential therapeutic effects of high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS in rheumatoid arthritis. However, no studies to date have measured the effects of high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS on cerebral blood flow (CBF). The objective of this study was to determine whether high-frequency (20 kHz) sub-threshold taVNS induces significant changes in CBF, a promising metric for the assessment of the sustained effects of taVNS. Arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI scans were performed on 20 healthy subjects in a single-blind placebo-controlled repeated measures experimental design. The ASL scans were performed before and after 15 min of either sub-threshold taVNS treatment or a sham control. taVNS induced significant changes in CBF in the superior posterior cerebellum that were largely localized to bilateral Crus I and Crus II. Post hoc analyses showed that the changes were driven by a treatment-related decrease in CBF. Fifteen minutes of high-frequency sub-threshold taVNS can induce sustained CBF decreases in the bilateral posterior cerebellum in a cohort of healthy subjects. This study lays the foundation for future studies in clinical populations, and also supports the use of ASL measures of CBF for the assessment of the sustained effects of taVNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conan Chen
- Center for Functional MRI, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0677, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Yixiang Mao
- Center for Functional MRI, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0677, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Maryam Falahpour
- Center for Functional MRI, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0677, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Kelly H MacNiven
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Nēsos Corporation, Redwood City, CA, USA
| | - Gary Heit
- Nēsos Corporation, Redwood City, CA, USA
- Department of Neurosurgery, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Thomas T Liu
- Center for Functional MRI, Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive #0677, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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Ezeokafor I, Upadhya A, Shetty S. Neurosensory Prosthetics: An Integral Neuromodulation Part of Bioelectronic Device. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:671767. [PMID: 34867141 PMCID: PMC8637173 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.671767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioelectronic medicines (BEMs) constitute a branch of bioelectronic devices (BEDs), which are a class of therapeutics that combine neuroscience with molecular biology, immunology, and engineering technologies. Thus, BEMs are the culmination of thought processes of scientists of varied fields and herald a new era in the treatment of chronic diseases. BEMs work on the principle of neuromodulation of nerve stimulation. Examples of BEMs based on neuromodulation are those that modify neural circuits through deep brain stimulation, vagal nerve stimulation, spinal nerve stimulation, and retinal and auditory implants. BEDs may also serve as diagnostic tools by mimicking human sensory systems. Two examples of in vitro BEDs used as diagnostic agents in biomedical applications based on in vivo neurosensory circuits are the bioelectronic nose and bioelectronic tongue. The review discusses the ever-growing application of BEDs to a wide variety of health conditions and practices to improve the quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Archana Upadhya
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal (SVKM) Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMiMS) (SVKM’S NMiMS), Mumbai, India
| | - Saritha Shetty
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal (SVKM) Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMiMS) (SVKM’S NMiMS), Mumbai, India
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30
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Vagus nerve stimulation activates two distinct neuroimmune circuits converging in the spleen to protect mice from kidney injury. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2021758118. [PMID: 33737395 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2021758118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury is highly prevalent and associated with high morbidity and mortality, and there are no approved drugs for its prevention and treatment. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) alleviates inflammatory diseases including kidney disease; however, neural circuits involved in VNS-induced tissue protection remain poorly understood. The vagus nerve, a heterogeneous group of neural fibers, innervates numerous organs. VNS broadly stimulates these fibers without specificity. We used optogenetics to selectively stimulate vagus efferent or afferent fibers. Anterograde efferent fiber stimulation or anterograde (centripetal) sensory afferent fiber stimulation both conferred kidney protection from ischemia-reperfusion injury. We identified the C1 neurons-sympathetic nervous system-splenic nerve-spleen-kidney axis as the downstream pathway of vagus afferent fiber stimulation. Our study provides a map of the neural circuits important for kidney protection induced by VNS, which is critical for the safe and effective clinical application of VNS for protection from acute kidney injury.
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31
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Kuwabara S, Goggins E, Tanaka S. Neuroimmune Circuits Activated by Vagus Nerve Stimulation. Nephron Clin Pract 2021; 146:286-290. [PMID: 34515167 DOI: 10.1159/000518176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The interaction between the nervous system and the immune system has recently been well-recognized. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) presents potential as an anti-inflammatory therapy through activation of neuroimmune pathways. Detailed understanding of the neuroimmune pathways VNS evokes is critical in order to successfully use it in the clinic for the treatment of acute kidney injury, in which inflammation plays an important role. In this review, we describe recent findings regarding VNS-induced neuroimmune pathways responsible for anti-inflammation and tissue protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Kuwabara
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Eibhlin Goggins
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Shinji Tanaka
- Division of Nephrology and Center for Immunity, Inflammation, and Regenerative Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
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Szulczewski MT. Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation Combined With Slow Breathing: Speculations on Potential Applications and Technical Considerations. Neuromodulation 2021; 25:380-394. [PMID: 35396070 DOI: 10.1111/ner.13458] [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: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is a relatively novel noninvasive neurostimulation method that is believed to mimic the effects of invasive cervical VNS. It has recently been suggested that the effectiveness of taVNS can be enhanced by combining it with controlled slow breathing. Slow breathing modulates the activity of the vagus nerve and is used in behavioral medicine to decrease psychophysiological arousal. Based on studies that examine the effects of taVNS and slow breathing separately, this article speculates on some of the conditions in which this combination treatment may prove effective. Furthermore, based on findings from studies on the optimization of taVNS and slow breathing, this article provides guidance on how to combine taVNS with slow breathing. MATERIALS AND METHODS A nonsystematic review. RESULTS Both taVNS and slow breathing are considered promising add-on therapeutic approaches for anxiety and depressive disorders, chronic pain, cardiovascular diseases, and insomnia. Therefore, taVNS combined with slow breathing may produce additive or even synergistic beneficial effects in these conditions. Studies on respiratory-gated taVNS during spontaneous breathing suggest that taVNS should be delivered during expiration. Therefore, this article proposes to use taVNS as a breathing pacer to indicate when and for how long to exhale during slow breathing exercises. CONCLUSIONS Combining taVNS with slow breathing seems to be a promising hybrid neurostimulation and behavioral intervention.
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Hajiasgharzadeh K, Khabbazi A, Mokhtarzadeh A, Baghbanzadeh A, Asadzadeh Z, Adlravan E, Baradaran B. Cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway and connective tissue diseases. Inflammopharmacology 2021; 29:975-986. [PMID: 34125373 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-021-00812-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue diseases (CTDs) consist of an extensive range of heterogeneous medical conditions, which are caused by immune-mediated chronic inflammation and influences the various connective tissues of the body. They include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, vasculitis, Sjögren's syndrome, Behcet's disease, and many other autoimmune CTDs. To date, several anti-inflammatory approaches have been developed to reduce the severity of inflammation or its subsequent organ manifestations. As a logical mechanism to harnesses the undesired inflammation, some studies investigated the role of the intrinsic cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) in the modulation of chronic inflammation. Many different experimental and clinical models have been developed to evaluate the therapeutic significance of the CAP in CTDs. On the other hand, an issue that is less emphasized in this regard is the presence of autonomic neuropathy in CTDs, which influences the efficiency of CAP in such clinical settings. This condition occurs during CTDs and is a well-known complication of patients suffering from them. The advantages and limitations of CAP in the control of inflammatory responses and its possible therapeutic benefits in the treatment of CTDs are the main subjects of the current study. Therefore, this narrative review article is provided based on the recent findings of the complicated role of CAP in CTDs which were retrieved by searching Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. It seems that delineating the complex influences of CAP would be of great interest in designing novel surgical or pharmacological therapeutic strategies for CTDs therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalil Hajiasgharzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran.,Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614756, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Khabbazi
- Connective Tissue Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614756, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Ahad Mokhtarzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Asadzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Adlravan
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht St, Postcode: 5166614766, Tabriz, Iran. .,Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Stakenborg N, Boeckxstaens GE. Bioelectronics in the brain-gut axis: focus on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Int Immunol 2021; 33:337-348. [PMID: 33788920 PMCID: PMC8183669 DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxab014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence shows that intestinal homeostasis is mediated by cross-talk between the nervous system, enteric neurons and immune cells, together forming specialized neuroimmune units at distinct anatomical locations within the gut. In this review, we will particularly discuss how the intrinsic and extrinsic neuronal circuitry regulates macrophage function and phenotype in the gut during homeostasis and aberrant inflammation, such as observed in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Furthermore, we will provide an overview of basic and translational IBD research using these neuronal circuits as a novel therapeutic tool. Finally, we will highlight the different challenges ahead to make bioelectronic neuromodulation a standard treatment for intestinal immune-mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Stakenborg
- Center of Intestinal Neuro-immune Interaction, Translational Research Center for GI Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N1 bus 701, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Guy E Boeckxstaens
- Center of Intestinal Neuro-immune Interaction, Translational Research Center for GI Disorders (TARGID), Department of Chronic Diseases, Metabolism and Ageing, University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N1 bus 701, Leuven 3000, Belgium
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Pavlov VA. The evolving obesity challenge: targeting the vagus nerve and the inflammatory reflex in the response. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 222:107794. [PMID: 33310156 PMCID: PMC8027699 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2020.107794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and the metabolic syndrome (MetS), which have reached pandemic proportions significantly increase the risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other serious conditions. Recent data with COVID-19 patients indicate that obesity also is a significant risk factor for this novel viral disease and poor outcome of associated critical illness. These findings considerably change the view of obesity as a driver of serious, but slowly-progressing chronic diseases, and emphasize the urgency to explore new therapeutic approaches. Inflammation is a recognized driver of metabolic derangements in obesity and MetS, and a core feature of COVID-19 pathobiology. Recent advances in our understanding of inflammatory regulation have highlighted the role of the nervous system and the vagus nerve-based inflammatory reflex. Current bioelectronic and pharmacological therapeutic explorations centered on the inflammatory reflex offer new approaches for conditions characterized by immune and metabolic dysregulation and for ameliorating the escalating burden of obesity, MetS, and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin A Pavlov
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA.
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Ramkissoon CM, Güemes A, Vehi J. Overview of therapeutic applications of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation: a motivation for novel treatments for systemic lupus erythematosus. Bioelectron Med 2021; 7:8. [PMID: 34030736 PMCID: PMC8145832 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-021-00069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disorder that commonly affects the skin, joints, kidneys, and central nervous system. Although great progress has been made over the years, patients still experience unfavorable secondary effects from medications, increased economic burden, and higher mortality rates compared to the general population. To alleviate these current problems, non-invasive, non-pharmacological interventions are being increasingly investigated. One such intervention is non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation, which promotes the upregulation of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway that reduces the activation and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species, culpable processes in autoimmune diseases such as SLE. This review first provides a background on the important contribution of the autonomic nervous system to the pathogenesis of SLE. The gross and structural anatomy of the vagus nerve and its contribution to the inflammatory response are described afterwards to provide a general understanding of the impact of stimulating the vagus nerve. Finally, an overview of current clinical applications of invasive and non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for a variety of diseases, including those with similar symptoms to the ones in SLE, is presented and discussed. Overall, the review presents neuromodulation as a promising strategy to alleviate SLE symptoms and potentially reverse the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amparo Güemes
- Bio-Inspired Technology, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, UK
| | - Josep Vehi
- Institut d’Informàtica i Aplicacions, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
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Alen NV, Parenteau AM, Sloan RP, Hostinar CE. Heart Rate Variability and Circulating Inflammatory Markers in Midlife. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 15. [PMID: 34268499 PMCID: PMC8277115 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence suggest that the parasympathetic nervous system engages in active monitoring and moderating of inflammatory processes. A clearer understanding of the bidirectional communication between the parasympathetic nervous system and the immune system could lead to novel clinical interventions for inflammatory illnesses. The current study used a large (N = 836) nationally representative sample of adults in the United States to investigate the associations between resting parasympathetic modulation of the heart, indexed through both high frequency heart rate variability (HF-HRV) and low frequency heart rate variability (LF-HRV), and six circulating markers of inflammation. Statistical analyses revealed robust inverse associations of HF-HRV with interleukin-6 (IL6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and fibrinogen, with or without covariate adjustment. Similar inverse associations were observed between LF-HRV and IL6 and CRP. No significant associations were observed between HRV and either inflammatory adhesion molecules (E-selectin, intracellular adhesion molecule-1) or soluble IL6 receptor. Results are consistent with the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway and suggest that parasympathetic modulation of inflammation through the vagus nerve may act on specific inflammatory molecules more than others.
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38
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Verma N, Mudge JD, Kasole M, Chen RC, Blanz SL, Trevathan JK, Lovett EG, Williams JC, Ludwig KA. Auricular Vagus Neuromodulation-A Systematic Review on Quality of Evidence and Clinical Effects. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:664740. [PMID: 33994937 PMCID: PMC8120162 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.664740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The auricular branch of the vagus nerve runs superficially, which makes it a favorable target for non-invasive stimulation techniques to modulate vagal activity. For this reason, there have been many early-stage clinical trials on a diverse range of conditions. These trials often report conflicting results for the same indication. Methods: Using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool we conducted a systematic review of auricular vagus nerve stimulation (aVNS) randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to identify the factors that led to these conflicting results. The majority of aVNS studies were assessed as having "some" or "high" risk of bias, which makes it difficult to interpret their results in a broader context. Results: There is evidence of a modest decrease in heart rate during higher stimulation dosages, sometimes at above the level of sensory discomfort. Findings on heart rate variability conflict between studies and are hindered by trial design, including inappropriate washout periods, and multiple methods used to quantify heart rate variability. There is early-stage evidence to suggest aVNS may reduce circulating levels and endotoxin-induced levels of inflammatory markers. Studies on epilepsy reached primary endpoints similar to previous RCTs testing implantable vagus nerve stimulation therapy. Preliminary evidence shows that aVNS ameliorated pathological pain but not evoked pain. Discussion: Based on results of the Cochrane analysis we list common improvements for the reporting of results, which can be implemented immediately to improve the quality of evidence. In the long term, existing data from aVNS studies and salient lessons from drug development highlight the need for direct measures of local neural target engagement. Direct measures of neural activity around the electrode will provide data for the optimization of electrode design, placement, and stimulation waveform parameters to improve on-target engagement and minimize off-target activation. Furthermore, direct measures of target engagement, along with consistent evaluation of blinding success, must be used to improve the design of controls-a major source of concern identified in the Cochrane analysis. The need for direct measures of neural target engagement and consistent evaluation of blinding success is applicable to the development of other paresthesia-inducing neuromodulation therapies and their control designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishant Verma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jonah D. Mudge
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Maïsha Kasole
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Rex C. Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Stephan L. Blanz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - James K. Trevathan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | | | - Justin C. Williams
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Kip A. Ludwig
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Wisconsin Institute for Translational Neuroengineering (WITNe) – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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Tracey KJ. Hacking the inflammatory reflex. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2021; 3:e237-e239. [PMID: 38279406 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(20)30448-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Tracey
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, New York, NY, USA.
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40
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Marsal S, Corominas H, de Agustín JJ, Pérez-García C, López-Lasanta M, Borrell H, Reina D, Sanmartí R, Narváez J, Franco-Jarava C, Peterfy C, Narváez JA, Sharma V, Alataris K, Genovese MC, Baker MC. Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation for rheumatoid arthritis: a proof-of-concept study. THE LANCET. RHEUMATOLOGY 2021; 3:e262-e269. [PMID: 38279410 DOI: 10.1016/s2665-9913(20)30425-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vagus nerve stimulation delivered with an implanted device has been shown to improve rheumatoid arthritis severity. We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of non-invasive stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve for the treatment of patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis. METHODS This prospective, multicentre, open-label, single-arm proof-of-concept study enrolled patients aged 18-80 years with active rheumatoid arthritis who had an inadequate response to conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and up to one biological DMARD. Biological DMARDs were stopped at least 4 weeks before enrolment and concomitant use was not allowed during the study. All eligible participants were assigned to use a non-invasive, wearable vagus nerve stimulation device for up to 30 min per day, which delivered pulses of 20 kHz. Follow-up visits occurred at week 1, week 2, week 4, week 8, and week 12 after the baseline visit. The primary endpoint was the mean change in Disease Activity Score of 28 joints with C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) at week 12 compared with baseline. Secondary endpoints included the mean change in the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), the proportion of patients with a minimal clinically important difference of 0·22 on HAQ-DI, the proportion achieving American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20, ACR50, and ACR70 response, and safety analysis. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04116866). FINDINGS Of 35 patients screened for eligibility, 30 (86%) were enrolled at six centres in Spain between Dec 27, 2018, and Oct 24, 2019, of whom 27 (90%) completed the week 12 visit. The mean change in DAS28-CRP at 12 weeks was -1·4 (95%CI -1·9 to -0·9; p<0·0001) from a mean baseline of 5·3 (SD 1·0). 11 (37%) of 30 patients reached DAS28-CRP of 3·2 or less, and seven (23%) patients reached DAS28-CRP of less than 2·6 at week 12. The mean HAQ-DI change was -0·5 (95%CI -0·7 to -0·2; p<0·0001) from a mean baseline of 1·6 (SD 0·7), and 17 (57%) patients reached a minimal clinically important difference of 0·22 or more. ACR20 responses were reached by 16 (53%) patients, ACR50 responses by 10 (33%) patients, and ACR70 by five (17%) patients. Four adverse events were reported, none of which were serious and all of which resolved without intervention. INTERPRETATION Use of the device was well tolerated, and patients had clinically meaningful reductions in DAS28-CRP. This was an uncontrolled, open-label study, and the results must be interpreted in this context. Further evaluation in larger, controlled studies is needed to confirm whether this non-invasive approach might offer an alternative treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. FUNDING Nēsos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Marsal
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Héctor Corominas
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital of the Holy Cross and Saint Paul, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - María López-Lasanta
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Borrell
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Delia Reina
- Rheumatology Department, Moisès Broggi Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Raimón Sanmartí
- Rheumatology Department, Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Narváez
- Rheumatology Department, University Hospital of Bellvitge, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mark C Genovese
- Gilead Sciences, Foster City, CA, USA; Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Matthew C Baker
- Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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Hilderman M, Bruchfeld A. The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway in chronic kidney disease-review and vagus nerve stimulation clinical pilot study. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2021; 35:1840-1852. [PMID: 33151338 PMCID: PMC7643692 DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfaa200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and autonomic dysfunction are common findings in chronic and end-stage kidney disease and contribute to a markedly increased risk of mortality in this patient population. The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway (CAP) is a vagal neuro-immune circuit that upholds the homoeostatic balance of inflammatory activity in response to cell injury and pathogens. CAP models have been examined in preclinical studies to investigate its significance in a range of clinical inflammatory conditions and diseases. More recently, cervical vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) implants have been shown to be of potential benefit for patients with chronic autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. We have previously shown that dialysis patients have a functional CAP ex vivo. Here we review the field and the potential role of the CAP in acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease (CKD) as well as in hypertension. We also present a VNS pilot study in haemodialysis patients. Controlling inflammation by neuroimmune modulation may lead to new therapeutic modalities for improved treatment, outcome, prognosis and quality of life for patients with CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Hilderman
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annette Bruchfeld
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Renal Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Division of Diagnostics and Specialist Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Murray K, Rude KM, Sladek J, Reardon C. Divergence of neuroimmune circuits activated by afferent and efferent vagal nerve stimulation in the regulation of inflammation. J Physiol 2021; 599:2075-2084. [PMID: 33491187 DOI: 10.1113/jp281189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS It has previously been shown that afferent and efferent vagal nerve stimulation potently inhibits lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation Our data show inhibition of inflammation by efferent but not afferent vagal nerve stimulation requires T-cell derived acetylcholine We show that afferent and efferent neuroimmune circuits require β2 -adrenergic receptor signalling ABSTRACT: Chronic inflammation due to inappropriate immune cell activation can have significant effects on a variety of organ systems, reducing lifespan and quality of life. As such, highly targeted control of immune cell activation is a major therapeutic goal. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as a therapeutic modality that exploits neuroimmune communication to reduce immune cell activation and consequently inflammation. Although vagal efferent fibres were originally identified as the primary driver of anti-inflammatory actions, the vagus nerve in most species of animals predominantly comprises afferent fibres. Stimulation of vagal afferent fibres can also reduce inflammation; it is, however, uncertain how these two neuroimmune circuits diverge. Here we show that afferent VNS induces a mechanism distinct from efferent VNS, ameliorating lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation independently of T-cell derived acetylcholine (ACh) which is required by efferent VNS. Using a β2 -adrenergic receptor antagonist (β2 -AR), we find that immune regulation induced by intact, afferent, or efferent VNS occurs in a β2- AR-dependent manner. Together, our findings indicate that intact VNS activates at least two distinct neuroimmune circuits each with unique mechanisms of action. Selective targeting of either the vagal efferent or afferent fibres may provide more personalized, robust and effective control over inappropriate immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin Murray
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kavi M Rude
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jessica Sladek
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Colin Reardon
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Courties A, Berenbaum F, Sellam J. Vagus nerve stimulation in musculoskeletal diseases. Joint Bone Spine 2021; 88:105149. [PMID: 33548494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2021.105149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The vagus nerve is the main nerve of the parasympathetic autonomic nervous system. Beyond its vegetative functions, the vagus nerve possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Initially developed in the treatment of refractory epilepsy, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is currently being evaluated in several musculoskeletal diseases. VNS can be invasive by placing an electrode around the cervical vagus nerve and connected to a generator implanted subcutaneously or non-invasive stimulating the cervical vagus nerve branch percutaneously (auricular or cervical). In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, VNS has been shown to dampen the inflammatory response of circulatory peripheral cells. Several open-labeled small pilot studies have demonstrated that VNS, either invasive or transcutaneous, is associated with a significant decrease of RA disease activity. As well, other studies have shown that VNS could limit fatigue in Sjogren's syndrome and systemic lupus, or decrease pain in fibromyalgia as well as in erosive hand osteoarthritis. However, some questions remain, such as the settings of stimulation, the duration of treatment, or the optimal stimulation route. Finally, randomized controlled trials versus sham stimulation with large samples of patients are mandatory to definitively conclude about the efficacy of VNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Courties
- INSERM UMRS 938, service de rhumatologie, Sorbonne Université, hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Francis Berenbaum
- INSERM UMRS 938, service de rhumatologie, Sorbonne Université, hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Jérémie Sellam
- INSERM UMRS 938, service de rhumatologie, Sorbonne Université, hôpital Saint-Antoine, AP-HP, Paris, France.
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Hoeve J. Clinical Evidence of Vestibular Dysregulation in Colicky Babies Before and After Chiropractic Treatment vs. Non-colicky Babies. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:668457. [PMID: 34123971 PMCID: PMC8193522 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.668457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To date, after 65 years of research that was primarily directed at differentiating between normal and colicky crying, the cause of infantile colic remains elusive and no definitive cure has been found. Given the general absence of pathology, colicky crying is widely considered the extreme end of a spectrum of normal crying behavior. However, evidence gleaned from scattered sources throughout the literature suggests that infantile colic may be the behavioral expression of physiological brainstem dysregulation, particularly of the vestibular and autonomic systems. The purpose of this study is to present a five-point clinical index of vestibular (hyper) activity and its application to investigate vestibular dysregulation in colicky and non-colicky babies. Methods: One hundred and twenty consecutive colicky babies were evaluated using this index, before and after a very gentle vibratory treatment, and compared to 117 non-colicky babies. Results: Before treatment, of 120 colicky babies only 2 (1.7%) scored 0, whereas 118 (98.3%) scored 1-5. Of 117 non-colicky babies 89 (76.1%) scored 0 and 28 (23.9%) scored 1-3, none scored 4-5. The odds ratio is OR (CI 95%) 187.54 (43.52-808.09). After treatment 111 (92.5%) scored 0 and 9 (7.5%) scored 1-3, none scored 4-5. A McNemar test showed the difference before and after to be significant (χ2 = 109.00, p < 0.001). For colicky babies the mean vestibular score is 2.88 (SD 1.22), compared to 0.37 (SD 0.73) for non-colicky babies, a difference of 87.2%. After treatment the score decreased from 2.88 (SD 1.12) to 0.10 (SD 0.40), or 96.5%. Conclusion: Colicky babies are not just infants who cry a lot. They also show clinical evidence of vestibular dysregulation. Treatment aimed at relaxing tight sub-occipital musculature by means of gentle vibrational stimulation may be effective in decreasing vestibular hyperactivity, signifying an improvement in brainstem regulation. The vestibular index opens the prospect for development into a tool toward an objective and practical clinical diagnosis of infantile colic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Hoeve
- Chiropractie Staphorst, Staphorst, Netherlands
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Ingegnoli F, Buoli M, Antonucci F, Coletto LA, Esposito CM, Caporali R. The Link Between Autonomic Nervous System and Rheumatoid Arthritis: From Bench to Bedside. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:589079. [PMID: 33365319 PMCID: PMC7750536 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.589079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal stimulation is an emerging field of research focused on the management and treatment of various diseases through the reestablishment of physiological homeostasis. Electrical vagus nerve stimulation has recently been proposed as a revolutionary therapeutic option for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in combination with or even as a replacement for conventional and biological drugs. In the past few years, disruption of the autonomic system has been linked to RA onset and activity. Novel research on the link between the autonomic nervous system and the immune system (immune-autonomics) has paved the way for the development of innovative RA management strategies. Clinical evidence supports this approach. Cardiovascular involvement, in terms of reduced baroreflex sensitivity and heart rate variability-derived indices, and mood disorders, common comorbidities in patients with RA, have been linked to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which in turn is influenced by increased levels of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. This narrative review provides an overview of the autonomic nervous system and RA connection, discussing most of the common cardiac and mental health-related RA comorbidities and their potential relationships to systemic and joint inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Ingegnoli
- Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Gaetano Pini Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Buoli
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Ca'Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Flavia Antonucci
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine (BIOMETRA), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Lavinia Agra Coletto
- Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Gaetano Pini Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Maria Esposito
- Department of Neurosciences and Mental Health, Fondazione Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Ca'Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Caporali
- Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Gaetano Pini Hospital, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Aranow C, Atish-Fregoso Y, Lesser M, Mackay M, Anderson E, Chavan S, Zanos TP, Datta-Chaudhuri T, Bouton C, Tracey KJ, Diamond B. Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation reduces pain and fatigue in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a randomised, double-blind, sham-controlled pilot trial. Ann Rheum Dis 2020; 80:203-208. [PMID: 33144299 DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-217872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Musculoskeletal pain and fatigue are common features in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is a physiological mechanism diminishing inflammation, engaged by stimulating the vagus nerve. We evaluated the effects of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation in patients with SLE and with musculoskeletal pain. METHODS 18 patients with SLE and with musculoskeletal pain ≥4 on a 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale were randomised (2:1) in this double-blind study to receive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) or sham stimulation (SS) for 4 consecutive days. Evaluations at baseline, day 5 and day 12 included patient assessments of pain, disease activity (PtGA) and fatigue. Tender and swollen joint counts and the Physician Global Assessment (PGA) were completed by a physician blinded to the patient's therapy. Potential biomarkers were evaluated. RESULTS taVNS and SS were well tolerated. Subjects receiving taVNS had a significant decrease in pain and fatigue compared with SS and were more likely (OR=25, p=0.02) to experience a clinically significant reduction in pain. PtGA, joint counts and PGA also improved. Pain reduction and improvement of fatigue correlated with the cumulative current received. In general, responses were maintained through day 12. Plasma levels of substance P were significantly reduced at day 5 compared with baseline following taVNS but other neuropeptides, serum and whole blood-stimulated inflammatory mediators, and kynurenine metabolites showed no significant change at days 5 or 12 compared with baseline. CONCLUSION taVNS resulted in significantly reduced pain, fatigue and joint scores in SLE. Additional studies evaluating this intervention and its mechanisms are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Aranow
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | | | - Martin Lesser
- Biostatistics Unit, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Meggan Mackay
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Erik Anderson
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Sangeeta Chavan
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Theodoros P Zanos
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Timir Datta-Chaudhuri
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Chad Bouton
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Kevin J Tracey
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Betty Diamond
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
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Qureshi IS, Datta-Chaudhuri T, Tracey KJ, Pavlov VA, Chen ACH. Auricular neural stimulation as a new non-invasive treatment for opioid detoxification. Bioelectron Med 2020; 6:7. [PMID: 32266304 PMCID: PMC7110792 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-020-00044-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent opioid crisis is one of the rising challenges in the history of modern health care. New and effective treatment modalities with less adverse effects to alleviate and manage this modern epidemic are critically needed. The FDA has recently approved two non-invasive electrical nerve stimulators for the adjunct treatment of symptoms of acute opioid withdrawal. These devices, placed behind the ear, stimulate certain cranial nerves with auricular projections. This neural stimulation reportedly generates a prompt effect in terms of alleviation of withdrawal symptoms resulting from acute discontinuation of opioid use. Current experimental evidence indicates that this type of non-invasive neural stimulation has excellent potential to supplement medication assisted treatment in opioid detoxification with lower side effects and increased adherence to treatment. Here, we review current findings supporting the use of non-invasive neural stimulation in detoxification from opioid use. We briefly outline the neurophysiology underlying this approach of auricular electrical neural stimulation and its role in enhancing medication assisted treatment in treating symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Considering the growing deleterious impact of addictive disorders on our society, further studies on this emerging treatment modality are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran S. Qureshi
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY USA
- Chemical Dependency Dual Diagnosis Outpatient Facility, Department of Psychiatry, Staten Island University Hospital, Northwell Health, Staten Island, NY USA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
| | - Timir Datta-Chaudhuri
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY USA
| | - Kevin J. Tracey
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY USA
| | - Valentin A. Pavlov
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, NY USA
| | - Andrew C. H. Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY USA
- Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY USA
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Peeples L. Core Concept: The rise of bioelectric medicine sparks interest among researchers, patients, and industry. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:24379-24382. [PMID: 31796581 PMCID: PMC6900593 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1919040116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
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