Vagus nerve stimulation techniques: advances and therapeutic applications

The vagus nerve, a critical component of the parasympathetic nervous system, has long been recognized for its essential role in regulating diverse physiological processes, ranging from autonomic control of the heart and digestive system to modulation of inflammation and brain function. In recent years, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has emerged as a rapidly advancing neuromodulatory technique, holding extraordinary therapeutic promise across a spectrum of medical and neuropsychiatric disorders. While traditional implantable VNS devices have already gained approval for conditions such as epilepsy and depression, a new wave of non-invasive, targeted, and adaptable stimulation protocols is expanding the possibilities of this technique for both research and clinical care.This Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date platform for discussing the latest advances in vagus nerve stimulation, encompassing both mechanistic and clinical perspectives. We invite contributions that address, but are not limited to, the following main areas:· Innovative VNS Techniques and Technologies· Studies probing the mechanisms underpinnings of VNS—how it modulates neural circuits, autonomic balance, immune system responses, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity.· Clinical and preclinical investigations evaluating VNS for established and emerging indications, which may include epilepsy, depression, chronic pain, inflammatory bowel disease, cardiovascular conditions, post-COVID syndromes, and more.· Optimization and Personalization of Therapy· Analyses of adverse effects, long-term safety, and comparative risk-benefit profiles of different VNS modalities.· Reviews or opinion pieces exploring the integration of VNS with digital health, neuromodulation with artificial intelligence, or hybrid approaches combining pharmacological and device-based treatments. Topic editors: Gonzalo Javier Revuelta, Palaniappan Ramaswamy Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/84480/vagus-nerve-stimulation-techniques-advances-and-therapeutic-applications