Bioelectronic medicines to control inflammatory biological processes and treat IBD

Development of electrical probes for spleen and mesenteric nerve stimulation

In 2000, it was discovered that neuronal activity can control the immune response and reduce systemic inflammation. To date, this principle has led to clinical trial investigating whether stimulation of the largest nerve of the body, the vagus nerve, can reduce symptoms in chronic inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), for which no cure exist. Here we joined forces with the UK based company Galvani bioelectronics.

This project is aimed at optimizing the design of electrical probes for implantation and the implementation of bioelectronic medicines to control inflammatory biological processes and treat IBD. These are to be micro-scale devices that connect two groups of individual neurons or their nerve fibers to modulate the electrical signaling patterns, to restore the healthy status quo of specific organs and functions. In particular, this project detailed how nerves in the body are related to particular diseases, to understand the firing patterns of those nerves, and to explore new technologies that will enable us to interface with these nerve fibers.

The findings in the project indicate a beneficial effect of nerve activity to treat IBD, although work need to be done to assess the most optimal pulse strength and frequency. The implanted device could be of benefit for patients as a relatively less invasive, non-medicine therapy with no particular side effects that are commonly seen with the use of biologicals.

Interested in more information, see the websites of gut-research and Galvani.

Summary
Neuronal activity can shape the immune response in a much more targeted and integrated fashion compared to humoral immune regulation. This project is aimed at optimizing the design of electrical probes for implantation and the implementation of bioelectronic medicines to control inflammatory biological processes and treat IBD. We have been able to reduce disease symptoms in models of IBD, via a mechanisms involving dampening of the innate immune response. Our data are paving the way for application of such probes to treat human IBD.
Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
2 - 4
Time period
6 months
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