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COVID-19 Induced Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): A Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e36955. [PMID: 37009342 PMCID: PMC10065129 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.36955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) is a multisystem disorder characterized by the abnormal autonomic response to an upright posture, causing orthostatic intolerance and excessive tachycardia without hypotension. Recent reports suggest that a significant percentage of COVID-19 survivors develop POTS within 6 to 8 months of infection. Prominent symptoms of POTS include fatigue, orthostatic intolerance, tachycardia, and cognitive impairment. The exact mechanisms of post-COVID-19 POTS are unclear. Still, different hypotheses have been given, including autoantibody production against autonomic nerve fibers, direct toxic effects of SARS-CoV-2, or sympathetic nervous system stimulation secondary to infection. Physicians should have a high suspicion of POTS in COVID-19 survival when presented with symptoms of autonomic dysfunction and should conduct diagnostic tests like the Tilt table and others to confirm it. The management of COVID-19-related POTS requires a comprehensive approach. Most patients respond to initial non-pharmacological options, but when the symptoms become more severe and they do not respond to the non-pharmacological approach, pharmacological options are considered. We have limited understanding and knowledge of post-COVID-19 POTS, and further research is warranted to improve our understanding and formulate a better management plan.
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The Potential of Flavonoids and Flavonoid Metabolites in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Pathology in Disorders of Cognitive Decline. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12030663. [PMID: 36978911 PMCID: PMC10045397 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12030663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Flavonoids are a biodiverse family of dietary compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial cell protective profiles. They have received considerable attention as potential therapeutic agents in biomedicine and have been widely used in traditional complimentary medicine for generations. Such complimentary medical herbal formulations are extremely complex mixtures of many pharmacologically active compounds that provide a therapeutic outcome through a network pharmacological effects of considerable complexity. Methods are emerging to determine the active components used in complimentary medicine and their therapeutic targets and to decipher the complexities of how network pharmacology provides such therapeutic effects. The gut microbiome has important roles to play in the generation of bioactive flavonoid metabolites retaining or exceeding the antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of the intact flavonoid and, in some cases, new antitumor and antineurodegenerative bioactivities. Certain food items have been identified with high prebiotic profiles suggesting that neutraceutical supplementation may be beneficially employed to preserve a healthy population of bacterial symbiont species and minimize the establishment of harmful pathogenic organisms. Gut health is an important consideration effecting the overall health and wellbeing of linked organ systems. Bioconversion of dietary flavonoid components in the gut generates therapeutic metabolites that can also be transported by the vagus nerve and systemic circulation to brain cell populations to exert a beneficial effect. This is particularly important in a number of neurological disorders (autism, bipolar disorder, AD, PD) characterized by effects on moods, resulting in depression and anxiety, impaired motor function, and long-term cognitive decline. Native flavonoids have many beneficial properties in the alleviation of inflammation in tissues, however, concerns have been raised that therapeutic levels of flavonoids may not be achieved, thus allowing them to display optimal therapeutic effects. Dietary manipulation and vagal stimulation have both yielded beneficial responses in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders, depression, and anxiety, establishing the vagal nerve as a route of communication in the gut-brain axis with established roles in disease intervention. While a number of native flavonoids are beneficial in the treatment of neurological disorders and are known to penetrate the blood–brain barrier, microbiome-generated flavonoid metabolites (e.g., protocatechuic acid, urolithins, γ-valerolactones), which retain the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency of the native flavonoid in addition to bioactive properties that promote mitochondrial health and cerebrovascular microcapillary function, should also be considered as potential biotherapeutic agents. Studies are warranted to experimentally examine the efficacy of flavonoid metabolites directly, as they emerge as novel therapeutic options.
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Guo Y, He Z, Chen Z, Chen F, Wang C, Zhou W, Liu J, Liu H, Shi R. Inhibition of Th17 cells by donepezil ameliorates experimental lung fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. Theranostics 2023; 13:1826-1842. [PMID: 37064881 PMCID: PMC10091879 DOI: 10.7150/thno.82069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to lung fibrosis belongs to WHO Group III, one of the most common subgroups of PH; however, it lacks effective treatment options. Cholinesterase inhibitor donepezil (DON) has been shown to effectively improve Group I PH. However, its effects on Group III PH are unknown. Methods: A lung fibrosis-induced PH mouse model was constructed using a single intratracheal instillation of bleomycin (BLM), after which DON was administered daily. Pulmonary artery and right ventricle (RV) remodeling were evaluated at the end of the study. Lung tissue in each group was analyzed using RNA sequencing, and the results were further verified with datasets from patients with PH. The mechanisms underlying DON-induced effects on PH were verified both in vivo and in vitro. Results: DON effectively improved pulmonary artery and RV remodeling in the BLM-induced mouse model. Transcriptomic profiles of lung tissue indicated that the expression of inflammatory and fibrotic genes was significantly changed in this process. In the animal model and patients with PH, T helper 17 lymphocytes (Th17) were the most common inflammatory cells infiltrating the lung tissue. DON significantly inhibited lung fibroblast activation; thus, preventing lung fibrosis and reducing the inflammatory response and Th17 cell infiltration in the BLM-induced lung tissue. In addition, Th17 cells could activate lung fibroblasts by secreting IL17A, and DON-mediated inhibition of Th17 cell differentiation was found to depend on the α7nAchR-JAK2-STAT3 pathway. Conclusion: DON can alleviate lung fibrosis and PH in an experimental mouse model. It inhibited pro-inflammatory Th17 cell differentiation, which is dependent on a cholinergic receptor pathway, thereby regulating fibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Guo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhuzhou Hospital Affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou 412007, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyu He
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhuzhou Hospital Affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou 412007, Hunan, China
| | - Zhu Chen
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Biomedical Nanomaterials and Devices, Hunan University of Technology, Zhuzhou 412007, Hunan, China
| | - Fengling Chen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhuzhou Hospital Affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou 412007, Hunan, China
| | - Chengming Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Zhuzhou Hospital Affiliated to Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Zhuzhou 412007, Hunan, China
| | - Wanlu Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Ruizheng Shi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China
- ✉ Corresponding author: Ruizheng Shi, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, No. 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha 410008, Hunan, China. Tel: +86 13755082530, E-mail:
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Thompson N, Ravagli E, Mastitskaya S, Iacoviello F, Stathopoulou TR, Perkins J, Shearing PR, Aristovich K, Holder D. Organotopic organization of the porcine mid-cervical vagus nerve. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:963503. [PMID: 37205051 PMCID: PMC10185768 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.963503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite detailed characterization of fascicular organization of somatic nerves, the functional anatomy of fascicles evident in human and large mammal cervical vagus nerve is unknown. The vagus nerve is a prime target for intervention in the field of electroceuticals due to its extensive distribution to the heart, larynx, lungs, and abdominal viscera. However, current practice of the approved vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) technique is to stimulate the entire nerve. This produces indiscriminate stimulation of non-targeted effectors and undesired side effects. Selective neuromodulation is now a possibility with a spatially-selective vagal nerve cuff. However, this requires the knowledge of the fascicular organization at the level of cuff placement to inform selectivity of only the desired target organ or function. Methods and results We imaged function over milliseconds with fast neural electrical impedance tomography and selective stimulation, and found consistent spatially separated regions within the nerve correlating with the three fascicular groups of interest, suggesting organotopy. This was independently verified with structural imaging by tracing anatomical connections from the end organ with microCT and the development of an anatomical map of the vagus nerve. This confirmed organotopic organization. Discussion Here we show, for the first time, localized fascicles in the porcine cervical vagus nerve which map to cardiac, pulmonary and recurrent laryngeal function (N = 4). These findings pave the way for improved outcomes in VNS as unwanted side effects could be reduced by targeted selective stimulation of identified organ-specific fiber-containing fascicles and the extension of this technique clinically beyond the currently approved disorders to treat heart failure, chronic inflammatory disorders, and more.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Thompson
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Nicole Thompson,
| | - Enrico Ravagli
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Svetlana Mastitskaya
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Iacoviello
- Electrochemical Innovations Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Justin Perkins
- Department of Clinical Science and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Paul R. Shearing
- Electrochemical Innovations Lab, Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kirill Aristovich
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Holder
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Zhu W, Zhang Y, Wang Y. Immunotherapy strategies and prospects for acute lung injury: Focus on immune cells and cytokines. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1103309. [PMID: 36618910 PMCID: PMC9815466 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1103309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ALI/ARDS) is a disastrous condition, which can be caused by a wide range of diseases, such as pneumonia, sepsis, traumas, and the most recent, COVID-19. Even though we have gained an improved understanding of acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome pathogenesis and treatment mechanism, there is still no effective treatment for acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome, which is partly responsible for the unacceptable mortality rate. In the pathogenesis of acute lung injury, the inflammatory storm is the main pathological feature. More and more evidences show that immune cells and cytokines secreted by immune cells play an irreplaceable role in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury. Therefore, here we mainly reviewed the role of various immune cells in acute lung injury from the perspective of immunotherapy, and elaborated the crosstalk of immune cells and cytokines, aiming to provide novel ideas and targets for the treatment of acute lung injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfang Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Anhui Chest Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Anhui Chest Hospital, Hefei, China,*Correspondence: Yiwen Zhang, ; Yinghong Wang,
| | - Yinghong Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China,*Correspondence: Yiwen Zhang, ; Yinghong Wang,
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Ormiston CK, Świątkiewicz I, Taub PR. Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome as a sequela of COVID-19. Heart Rhythm 2022; 19:1880-1889. [PMID: 35853576 PMCID: PMC9287587 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a complex multisystem disorder characterized by orthostatic intolerance and tachycardia and may be triggered by viral infection. Recent reports indicate that 2%-14% of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors develop POTS and 9%-61% experience POTS-like symptoms, such as tachycardia, orthostatic intolerance, fatigue, and cognitive impairment within 6-8 months of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Pathophysiological mechanisms of post-COVID-19 POTS are not well understood. Current hypotheses include autoimmunity related to SARS-CoV-2 infection, autonomic dysfunction, direct toxic injury by SARS-CoV-2 to the autonomic nervous system, and invasion of the central nervous system by SARS-CoV-2. Practitioners should actively assess POTS in patients with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome symptoms. Given that the symptoms of post-COVID-19 POTS are predominantly chronic orthostatic tachycardia, lifestyle modifications in combination with the use of heart rate-lowering medications along with other pharmacotherapies should be considered. For example, ivabradine or β-blockers in combination with compression stockings and increasing salt and fluid intake has shown potential. Treatment teams should be multidisciplinary, including physicians of various specialties, nurses, psychologists, and physiotherapists. Additionally, more resources to adequately care for this patient population are urgently needed given the increased demand for autonomic specialists and clinics since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering our limited understanding of post-COVID-19 POTS, further research on topics such as its natural history, pathophysiological mechanisms, and ideal treatment is warranted. This review evaluates the current literature available on the associations between COVID-19 and POTS, possible mechanisms, patient assessment, treatments, and future directions to improving our understanding of post-COVID-19 POTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron K Ormiston
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California; Division of Intramural Research, National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Iwona Świątkiewicz
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California; Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University Torun, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Pam R Taub
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California.
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Wagner JL. The vagus nerve: current concepts in anaesthesia and ICU management. SOUTHERN AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ANAESTHESIA AND ANALGESIA 2022. [DOI: 10.36303/sajaa.2022.28.5.2811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- JL Wagner
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University of the Witwatersrand,
South Africa
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8
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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] [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)
- Christopher J. Czura
- Convergent Medical Technologies, Inc., Oyster Bay, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Christopher J. Czura
| | - 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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Sahin BE, Celikbilek A, Kocak Y, Hizmali L. Patterns of COVID-19-related headache: A cross-sectional study. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2022; 219:107339. [PMID: 35753162 PMCID: PMC9192353 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2022.107339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Headache is the most common COVID-19-related neurological symptom. We investigated the characteristics of COVID-19-related headache and their relationship with clinical severity in Kırşehir Province, Turkey. METHODS This cross-sectional study prospectively enrolled 226 COVID-19-positive patients who developed headache during acute infection. Demographic data, headache characteristics, and infection symptoms were recorded. The clinical severity of COVID-19 was documented in each participant. RESULT New-onset COVID-19-related headaches lasting 4 days were reported in 164 patients (72.5 %); these were mostly bilaterally or localized to the forehead (58.4 %), pulsating (42.5 %), moderate to severe intensity (30.1 %), with a partial response to paracetamol (23.5 %). The other 62 patients (27.4 %) reported headaches before COVID-19. Their COVID-related headaches were fiery type (p = 0.025), of very severe intensity (p = 0.008), had a holocranial distribution (p = 0.004), and were less response to paracetamol (p = 0.003); the headaches were significantly more frequent after COVID-19 than before COVID-19. Older age, high body mass index, and low education level were significantly higher in the severe group (all p < 0.001). Female sex (p = 0.019) and being a healthcare worker (p < 0.001) were significantly more frequent in mild cases. CONCLUSIONS Bilateral, prolonged, moderate to severe headaches that were analgesic resistant are more frequent in patients with COVID-19 infection. Further study should examine whether the headache characteristics distinguish COVID-19-related headaches from other types, particularly in asymptomatic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- B E Sahin
- Kirsehir Ahi Evran University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Kirsehir, Turkey.
| | - A Celikbilek
- Kirsehir Ahi Evran University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Kirsehir, Turkey.
| | - Y Kocak
- Kirsehir Ahi Evran University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Kirsehir, Turkey.
| | - L Hizmali
- Kirsehir Ahi Evran University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Kirsehir, Turkey.
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Ahmed U, Chang YC, Zafeiropoulos S, Nassrallah Z, Miller L, Zanos S. Strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:9. [PMID: 35637543 PMCID: PMC9150383 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00091-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The vagus nerve is involved in the autonomic regulation of physiological homeostasis, through vast innervation of cervical, thoracic and abdominal visceral organs. Stimulation of the vagus with bioelectronic devices represents a therapeutic opportunity for several disorders implicating the autonomic nervous system and affecting different organs. During clinical translation, vagus stimulation therapies may benefit from a precision medicine approach, in which stimulation accommodates individual variability due to nerve anatomy, nerve-electrode interface or disease state and aims at eliciting therapeutic effects in targeted organs, while minimally affecting non-targeted organs. In this review, we discuss the anatomical and physiological basis for precision neuromodulation of the vagus at the level of nerve fibers, fascicles, branches and innervated organs. We then discuss different strategies for precision vagus neuromodulation, including fascicle- or fiber-selective cervical vagus nerve stimulation, stimulation of vagal branches near the end-organs, and ultrasound stimulation of vagus terminals at the end-organs themselves. Finally, we summarize targets for vagus neuromodulation in neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders and suggest potential precision neuromodulation strategies that could form the basis for effective and safe therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umair Ahmed
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Yao-Chuan Chang
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Stefanos Zafeiropoulos
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Zeinab Nassrallah
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA
| | - Larry Miller
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA
| | - Stavros Zanos
- Institute of Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Manhasset, New York, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York, USA.
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Tornero C, Pastor E, Garzando MDM, Orduña J, Forner MJ, Bocigas I, Cedeño DL, Vallejo R, McClure CK, Czura CJ, Liebler EJ, Staats P. Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation for COVID-19: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial (SAVIOR I). Front Neurol 2022; 13:820864. [PMID: 35463130 PMCID: PMC9028764 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.820864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized, in part, by an excessive inflammatory response. Evidence from animal and human studies suggests that vagus nerve stimulation can lead to reduced levels of various biomarkers of inflammation. We conducted a prospective randomized controlled study (SAVIOR-I) to assess the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation (nVNS) for the treatment of respiratory symptoms and inflammatory markers among patients who were hospitalized for COVID-19 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04368156). Methods Participants were randomly assigned in a 1:1 allocation to receive either the standard of care (SoC) alone or nVNS therapy plus the SoC. The nVNS group received 2 consecutive 2-min doses of nVNS 3 times daily as prophylaxis. Efficacy and safety were evaluated via the incidence of specific clinical events, inflammatory biomarker levels, and the occurrence of adverse events. Results Of the 110 participants who were enrolled and randomly assigned, 97 (nVNS, n = 47; SoC, n = 50) had sufficient available data and comprised the evaluable population. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased from baseline to a significantly greater degree in the nVNS group than in the SoC group at day 5 and overall (i.e., all postbaseline data points collected through day 5, combined). Procalcitonin level also showed significantly greater decreases from baseline to day 5 in the nVNS group than in the SoC group. D-dimer levels were decreased from baseline for the nVNS group and increased from baseline for the SoC group at day 5 and overall, although the difference between the treatment groups did not reach statistical significance. No significant treatment differences were seen for clinical respiratory outcomes or any of the other biochemical markers evaluated. No serious nVNS-related adverse events occurred during the study. Conclusions nVNS therapy led to significant reductions in levels of inflammatory markers, specifically CRP and procalcitonin. Because nVNS has multiple mechanisms of action that may be relevant to COVID-19, additional research into its potential use earlier in the course of COVID-19 and its potential to mitigate some of the symptoms associated with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Tornero
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management Unit, Valencia, Spain
- Cátedra Dolor, UFV-Fundación Vithas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ernesto Pastor
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management Unit, Valencia, Spain
| | - María del Mar Garzando
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management Unit, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jorge Orduña
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Management Unit, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria J. Forner
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Internal Medicine Department, Valencia, Spain
| | - Irene Bocigas
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia, Pulmonary Department, Valencia, Spain
| | - David L. Cedeño
- Department of Basic Science, Millennium Pain Center, Bloomington, IL, United States
- Department of Psychology, Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington, IL, United States
| | - Ricardo Vallejo
- Department of Basic Science, Millennium Pain Center, Bloomington, IL, United States
- Department of Psychology, Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington, IL, United States
| | | | | | | | - Peter Staats
- electroCore, Inc., Rockaway, NJ, United States
- *Correspondence: Peter Staats
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Sarubbo F, El Haji K, Vidal-Balle A, Bargay Lleonart J. Neurological consequences of COVID-19 and brain related pathogenic mechanisms: A new challenge for neuroscience. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 19:100399. [PMID: 34870247 PMCID: PMC8629776 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2021.100399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the infection by the SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) there were also reported neurological symptoms, being the most frequent and best cited those that affect the cerebrovascular, sensorial, cognitive and motor functions, together with the neurological diffuse symptoms as for examples headache or dizziness. Besides, some of them behave high risk of mortality. Consequently, it is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms of action in brain of SARS-CoV-2 virus in order to create new therapeutic targets to fight against this new disease. Since now the mechanisms of arrival to the brain seems to be related with the following processes: blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption together with nervous or axonal transport of the virus by the trigeminal nerve, the vagus nerve, or the brain-gut-axis. Being two the mechanisms of brain affectation most cited: a direct affectation of the virus in the brain through neuroinvasion and an indirect mechanism of action due to the effects of the systemic infection. Both processes include the triggering of inflammation, hypoxia and the increased likelihood of secondary infections. This topic supposes a major novel challenge for neuroscience. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide summarized information about the neurological symptomatology and the brain pathogenic mechanisms involved and reported in COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Sarubbo
- Research Unit, University Hospital Son Llàtzer, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Crta, Manacor Km 4, 07198, Palma, Spain
- University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Biology Department, Mallorca, Spain
- University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Medicine Faculty, Mallorca, Spain
| | - Khaoulah El Haji
- Research Unit, University Hospital Son Llàtzer, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Crta, Manacor Km 4, 07198, Palma, Spain
| | - Aina Vidal-Balle
- Research Unit, University Hospital Son Llàtzer, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Crta, Manacor Km 4, 07198, Palma, Spain
| | - Joan Bargay Lleonart
- Research Unit, University Hospital Son Llàtzer, Health Research Institute of the Balearic Islands (IdISBa), Crta, Manacor Km 4, 07198, Palma, Spain
- University of the Balearic Islands (UIB), Medicine Faculty, Mallorca, Spain
- Hematology Department, University Hospital Son Llàtzer, Crta, Manacor Km 4, 07198, Palma, Spain
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13
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Ramos-Martínez IE, Rodríguez MC, Cerbón M, Ramos-Martínez JC, Ramos-Martínez EG. Role of the Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Reflex in Central Nervous System Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413427. [PMID: 34948222 PMCID: PMC8705572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In several central nervous system diseases, it has been reported that inflammation may be related to the etiologic process, therefore, therapeutic strategies are being implemented to control inflammation. As the nervous system and the immune system maintain close bidirectional communication in physiological and pathological conditions, the modulation of inflammation through the cholinergic anti-inflammatory reflex has been proposed. In this review, we summarized the evidence supporting chemical stimulation with cholinergic agonists and vagus nerve stimulation as therapeutic strategies in the treatment of various central nervous system pathologies, and their effect on inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Emmanuel Ramos-Martínez
- Glycobiology, Cell Growth and Tissue Repair Research Unit (Gly-CRRET), Université Paris Est Créteil (UPEC), 94010 Créteil, France;
| | - María Carmen Rodríguez
- Centro de Investigación Sobre Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, SSA, Morelos 62100, Mexico;
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (E.G.R.-M.)
| | - Juan Carlos Ramos-Martínez
- Cardiology Department, Hospital General Regional Lic. Ignacio Garcia Tellez IMSS, Yucatán 97150, Mexico;
| | - Edgar Gustavo Ramos-Martínez
- Escuela de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Oaxaca 68120, Mexico
- Instituto de Cómputo Aplicado en Ciencias, Oaxaca 68044, Mexico
- Correspondence: (M.C.); (E.G.R.-M.)
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14
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Ebrahimi M, Rad MTS, Zebardast A, Ayyasi M, Goodarzi G, Tehrani SS. The critical role of mesenchymal stromal/stem cell therapy in COVID-19 patients: An updated review. Cell Biochem Funct 2021; 39:945-954. [PMID: 34545605 PMCID: PMC8652792 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
New coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as a pandemic disaster, has drawn the attention of researchers in various fields to discover suitable therapeutic approaches for the management of COVID-19 patients. Currently, there are many worries about the rapid spread of COVID-19; there is no approved treatment for this infectious disease, despite many efforts to develop therapeutic procedures for COVID-19. Emerging evidence shows that mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy can be a suitable option for the management of COVID-19. These cells have many biological features (including the potential of differentiation, high safety and effectiveness, secretion of trophic factors and immunoregulatory features) that make them suitable for the treatment of various diseases. However, some studies have questioned the positive role of MSC therapy in the treatment of COVID-19. Accordingly, in this paper, we will focus on the therapeutic impacts of MSCs and their critical role in cytokine storm of COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsen Ebrahimi
- Neonatal and Child Health Research CenterGolestan University of Medical SciencesGorganIran
| | - Mohammad Taha Saadati Rad
- Psychiatric and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Addiction Research InstituteMazandaran University of Medical SciencesSariIran
| | - Arghavan Zebardast
- Department of Virology, School of Public HealthTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mitra Ayyasi
- Critical Care NursingIslamic Azad University, Sari BranchSariIran
| | - Golnaz Goodarzi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
- Scientific Research CenterTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Sadra Samavarchi Tehrani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of MedicineTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
- Scientific Research CenterTehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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15
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Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Qusti S, Alshammari EM, Gyebi GA, Batiha GES. Covid-19-Induced Dysautonomia: A Menace of Sympathetic Storm. ASN Neuro 2021; 13:17590914211057635. [PMID: 34755562 PMCID: PMC8586167 DOI: 10.1177/17590914211057635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the plethora of debilitating neurological disorders of COVID-19 syndrome in survivors, the scope of SARS-CoV-2-induced dysautonomia (DNS) is yet to be understood, though the implications are enormous. Herein, we present an inclusive mini-review of SARS-CoV-2-induced DNS and its associated complications. Although, the direct link between Covid-19 and DSN is still speculative, the hypothetical links are thought to be either a direct neuronal injury of the autonomic pathway or a para/post-infectious immune-induced mechanism. SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced stress may activate the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) leading to neuro-hormonal stimulation and activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines with further development of sympathetic storm. Sympathetic over-activation in Covid-19 is correlated with increase in capillary pulmonary leakage, alveolar damage, and development of acute respiratory distress syndrome. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 can spread through pulmonary mechanoreceptors and chemoreceptors to medullary respiratory center in a retrograde manner resulting in sudden respiratory failure. Taken together, DSN in Covid-19 is developed due to sympathetic storm and inhibition of Parasympathetic nervous system-mediated anti-inflammatory effect with development of cytokine storm. Therefore, sympathetic and cytokine storms together with activation of Renin-Angiotensin-System are the chief final pathway involved in the development of DSN in Covid-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayder M Al-Kuraishy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Almustansiriyia University
| | - Ali I Al-Gareeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Medicine, College of Medicine, Almustansiriyia University
| | - Safaa Qusti
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Science, 37848King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eida M Alshammari
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gideon Ampoma Gyebi
- Department of Biochemistry, 236312Faculty of Science and Technology Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa, Nigeria
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 289643Damanhour University, AlBeheira, Egypt
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16
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Rangon CM, Barruet R, Mazouni A, Le Cossec C, Thevenin S, Guillaume J, Léguillier T, Huysman F, Luis D. Auricular Neuromodulation for Mass Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Insights From SOS COVID-19 a Multicentric, Randomized, Controlled, Double-Blind French Pilot Study. Front Physiol 2021; 12:704599. [PMID: 34408665 PMCID: PMC8365750 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.704599] [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: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance: An exacerbated inflammatory response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is believed to be one of the major causes of the morbidity and mortality of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Neuromodulation therapy, based on vagus nerve stimulation, was recently hypothesized to control both the SARS-CoV-2 replication and the ensuing inflammation likely through the inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells pathway and could improve the clinical outcomes as an adjunct treatment. We proposed to test it by the stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, i.e., auricular neuromodulation (AN), a non-invasive procedure through the insertion of semipermanent needles on the ears. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of AN on the clinical outcomes in patients affected by COVID-19. Design, Setting, and Participants: A multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial included 31 patients with respiratory failure due to COVID-19 requiring hospitalization. Within 72 h after admission, patients received either AN (n = 14) or sham neuromodulation (SN, n = 15) in addition to the conventional treatments. Main Outcome and Measures: The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of a clinical benefit conferred by AN at Day 14 (D14) as assessed by a 7-point Clinical Progression Scale. The secondary endpoint of the study was the impact of AN on the rate of transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU) and on the survival rate at D14. Results: The AN procedure was well-tolerated without any reported side effects but with no significant improvement for the measures of both primary (p > 0.3) and secondary (p > 0.05) endpoints at the interim analysis. None of the AN-treated patients died but one in the SN group did (81 years). Two AN-treated patients (73 and 79 years, respectively) and one SN-treated patient (59 years) were transferred to ICU. Remarkably, AN-treated patients were older with more representation by males than in the SN arm (i.e., the median age of 75 vs. 65 years, 79% male vs. 47%). Conclusion: The AN procedure, which was used within 72 h after the admission of patients with COVID-19, was safe and could be successfully implemented during the first two waves of COVID-19 in France. Nevertheless, AN did not significantly improve the outcome of the patients in our small preliminary study. It is pertinent to explore further to validate AN as the non-invasive mass vagal stimulation solution for the forthcoming pandemics. Clinical Trial Registration: [https://clinicaltrials.gov/], identifier [NCT04341415].
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire-Marie Rangon
- Pain and Neuromodulation Unit, Neurosurgery Department, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Régine Barruet
- Infectious Diseases Department, Centre Hospitalier Simone Veil, Beauvais, France
| | | | - Chloé Le Cossec
- Clinical Research Department, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Thevenin
- Clinical Research Department, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Jessica Guillaume
- Clinical Research Department, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Teddy Léguillier
- Clinical Research Department, Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Huysman
- Clinical Research Department, Centre Hospitalier Simone Veil, Beauvais, France
| | - David Luis
- Clinical Research Department, Centre Hospitalier Simone Veil, Beauvais, France.,Intensive Care Unit, Centre Hospitalier Simone Veil, Beauvais, France
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17
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Gonçalves RA, De Felice FG. The crosstalk between brain and periphery: Implications for brain health and disease. Neuropharmacology 2021; 197:108728. [PMID: 34331960 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence indicates that signaling molecules identified primarily in the peripheral circulation can affect cognitive function in physiological and pathological conditions, including in the development of several neurological diseases. However, considering the properties of the vascular blood-brain barrier (BBB), circulating lipophobic molecules would not be expected to cross this vascular structure. Thus, if and how peripheral lipophobic molecules, such as hormones and cytokines, reach the brain to exert their reported effects remains to be better established. In this review, we will discuss evidence for and against the ability of molecules in the circulation, such as insulin, cytokines, and irisin to reach the brain and mediate the crosstalk between peripheral tissues and the central nervous system (CNS). We hypothesize that in addition to entering the brain via receptor-mediated transcytosis, these circulating molecules can have their transport facilitated by extracellular vesicles or under pathological conditions when the BBB is disrupted. We also discuss the possibility that these circulating molecules access the brain by acting directly on circumventricular organs, which lack the BBB, by local synthesis in the choroid plexus, and via activation of afferent vagal nerves. Advancing the understanding of mechanisms implicated in the transport of blood-borne molecules to the CNS will help us elucidate the contribution of peripheral factors to brain health and disease, and will enable the development of minimally invasive strategies to deliver therapeutic drugs to the brain in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella A Gonçalves
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
| | - Fernanda G De Felice
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; D'Or Institute for Research and Education (IDOR), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22281-100, Brazil; Institute of Medical Biochemistry Leopoldo de Meis, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, 21941-902, Brazil.
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18
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Fitchett A, Mastitskaya S, Aristovich K. Selective Neuromodulation of the Vagus Nerve. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:685872. [PMID: 34108861 PMCID: PMC8180849 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.685872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective technique for the treatment of refractory epilepsy and shows potential for the treatment of a range of other serious conditions. However, until now stimulation has generally been supramaximal and non-selective, resulting in a range of side effects. Selective VNS (sVNS) aims to mitigate this by targeting specific fiber types within the nerve to produce functionally specific effects. In recent years, several key paradigms of sVNS have been developed-spatially selective, fiber-selective, anodal block, neural titration, and kilohertz electrical stimulation block-as well as various stimulation pulse parameters and electrode array geometries. sVNS can significantly reduce the severity of side effects, and in some cases increase efficacy of the treatment. While most studies have focused on fiber-selective sVNS, spatially selective sVNS has demonstrated comparable mitigation of side-effects. It has the potential to achieve greater specificity and provide crucial information about vagal nerve physiology. Anodal block achieves strong side-effect mitigation too, but is much less specific than fiber- and spatially selective paradigms. The major hurdle to achieving better selectivity of VNS is a limited knowledge of functional anatomical organization of vagus nerve. It is also crucial to optimize electrode array geometry and pulse shape, as well as expand the applications of sVNS beyond the current focus on cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Svetlana Mastitskaya
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kirill Aristovich
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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