optogenetics

Selective optogenetic stimulation of efferent fibers in the vagus nerve of a large mammal

BACKGROUND. Electrical stimulation applied to individual organs, peripheral nerves, or specific brain regions has been used to treat a range of medical conditions. In cardiovascular disease, autonomic dysfunction contributes to the disease …

Optogenetic stimulation of vagal efferent activity preserves left ventricular function in experimental heart failure

This study showed that optogenetic stimulation of vagal pre-ganglionic neurons transduced to express light-sensitive channels preserved left ventricular function and exercise capacity in a rat model of myocardial infarction−induced heart failure.