there's a company in CA called SetPoint that is studying an implant to stimulate the vagus nerve, as a treatment for inflammatory disease
so far they have carried out a pilot study with good results, but it looks like they're not there yet. interesting nonetheless. reminds me a bit of the concept of a pacemaker...
SetPoint Medical is a biomedical technology company developing neuromodulation therapies for patients with inflammatory autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's Disease.
The company's scientific platform is based on the Inflammatory Reflex—the natural mechanism by which the central nervous system regulates the immune system. SetPoint co-founder Kevin Tracey discovered the Inflammatory Reflex pathway, publishing his findings in the journal Nature in May 2000.
SetPoint's approach uses vagus nerve stimulation to activate the Inflammatory Reflex. Published literature suggests the Inflammatory Reflex produces a potent systemic anti-inflammatory effect. The company's novel platform consists of an implantable miniature neuromodulation device, wireless charger and iPad control application.
so far they have carried out a pilot study with good results, but it looks like they're not there yet. interesting nonetheless. reminds me a bit of the concept of a pacemaker...
http://www.setpointmedical.com/index.php/technology/neuromodulation-for-inflammationSetPoint is developing breakthrough therapies to reduce systemic inflammation by stimulating the vagus nerve using an implantable pulse generator. This activates the body's natural Inflammatory Reflex and is intended to dampen inflammation to improve clinical signs and symptoms.
[bimg=400|no-lightbox]http://www.setpointmedical.com/images/Neuromodulation1.jpg[/bimg]