Effect of Low-Level Tragus Stimulation on Cardiac Metabolism in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Transcriptomics-Based Analysis.

Abnormal cardiac metabolism precedes and contributes to structural changes in heart failure. Low-level tragus stimulation (LLTS) can attenuate structural remodeling in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The role of LLTS on cardiac metabolism is not known.

Noninvasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Postural Tachycardia Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Low-level transcutaneous stimulation of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve at the tragus is antiarrhythmic and anti-inflammatory in animals and humans. Preliminary studies show that transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is beneficial in animal models of postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS).

Objectives: In this study the authors conducted a sham-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial to examine the effect of tVNS on POTS over a 2-month period relative to sham stimulation.

Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation Ameliorates the Phenotype of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction Through Its Anti-Inflammatory Effects.

Background: A systemic proinflammatory state plays a central role in the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Low-level transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (LLTS) suppresses inflammation in animals and humans, mediated by an α7nAchR (alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor)-dependent pathway. We examined the effects of LLTS on cardiac function, inflammation, and fibrosis in the presence of α7nAchR pharmacological blockade in a rat model of HFpEF.