Feinstein Institutes Scientists Observe Vagus Nerve Stimulation Effect on Brain Activity
The vagus nerve is a major therapeutic target for the emerging field of bioelectronic medicine, which uses neurostimulation to treat diseases.
- The vagus nerve is a major therapeutic target for the emerging field of bioelectronic medicine, which uses neurostimulation to treat diseases.
- Electrically stimulating the vagus nerve is approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a non-pharmacological treatment for brain diseases, including epilepsy and depression.
- While the links between the vagus nerve, body and the brain are well documented, the effects of VNS on brain function are complex and only partially understood.
- The brain monitors and controls healthy organ function because it receives and processes information in the vagus nerve, said Kevin J. Tracey, MD , president and CEO of the Feinstein Institutes.