Autonomic Neuromodulation

The autonomic nervous system is essential to the maintenance of homeostasis. Many cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases are characterized by a chronic imbalance of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system and drug-based therapies (which act globally) for these diseases are associated with numerous side effects and new approaches are needed.

The Division of Autonomic Neuromodulation is devoted to development of novel organ-based neuromodulation therapies for treatment of a variety of chronic diseases. Device based modulation of peripheral autonomic and sensory nerves is at the center of the rapidly emerging
field of “bioelectronic medicine”, often referred to as “electroceuticals”. We integrate the fields of autonomic neuroscience, physiology and biomedical engineering to gain a deeper understanding of the neurogenic basis of disease to inform the development of device-based therapies.

Basic and translational research efforts are currently focused on renal neuromodulation for treatment of hypertension and polycystic kidney disease. In addition to treating these diseases, this research forms the foundational framework for targeting other organs for other chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammation.

We are also conducting clinical research on the acute and chronic effects of vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) is a multi-site clinical study; Research Evaluating Vagal Excitation and Anatomical Links (REVEAL) which will generate a publicly shared data base for the purpose of developing novel VNS therapies for cardiovascular, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases.

Our Mission

1. Advance basic understanding of the neurogenic mechanisms of cardiometabolic diseases.
2. Bring together biomedical researchers, engineers, clinicians, and device companies to advance the field of bioelectronic medicine globally.
3. Provide a rich training environment for students, postdoctoral fellows, residents, and clinicians in the field of bioelectronic medicine.