Optimizing Ultrasound-induced Anti-inflammation in Human Subjects
University of Virginia
Summary
This is a feasibility study to determine whether pulsed ultrasound stimulation targeting the splenic nerve or the cervical vagus nerve can elicit an anti-inflammatory immune response in healthy volunteers.
Description
Recent advances have shown that neural pathways are able to regulate immunity and inflammation. The cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is a well-characterized neural circuit that consists of the vagus nerve to spleen circuit, which has been stimulated with implantable devices to improve autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, the use of pulsed ultrasonic waves to modulate the neuroimmune pathway has gained interest due to its potential in treating inflammatory disorders non-invasively. This study is designed to test the hypothesis that pulsed ultrasound stimulation ca…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 25–50 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Male or female, aged 25-50 years * Provision of signed and dated informed consent form * Able to comprehend the study goals and procedures, stated willingness to comply with all study procedures, and availability for the duration of the study * Considered English proficient so that the subject can follow verbal commands during the ultrasound procedure * In good general health, as evidenced by medical history * Laboratory results indicating normal blood count and adequate organ function * Agreement to adhere to Lifestyle Considerations throughout study duration. Exclusio…
Interventions
- DeviceUltrasound stimulation intensity
A clinical ultrasound transducer will be placed against the abdomen or neck of an individual in order to administer insonification to the splenic nerve.
- DeviceUltrasound stimulation site
A clinical ultrasound transducer will be placed against the abdomen or neck of an individual in order to administer insonification to the splenic nerve and the cervical vagus nerve.
Location
- University of Virginia, Division of Nephrology; Center for Immunity, Inflammation & Regenerative MedicineCharlottesville, Virginia