Study reveals a key factor for maintaining a young and healthier heart
This technological advance has the potential to change the way heart health is approached
Research coordinated by the Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies in Pisa reveals that preserving bilateral cardiac vagal innervation is essential for maintaining a healthy and young heart.
Published in Science Translational Medicine, the study establishes that the right cardiac vagus nerve has a crucial protective role in heart health, acting as an anti-aging factor that improves longevity of the heart without depending on heart rate.
The study is the product of an interdisciplinary approach, combining experimental medicine and bioengineering. Under the direction of Professor Vincenzo Lionetti at TrancriLab, it was carried out in Pisa with funding from the European Union and collaboration from several prestigious institutions. The research involved the development of a bioabsorbable nerve conduit, facilitating the regeneration of the vagus nerve.
Implications for cardiac surgery
According to Professor Lionetti, restoring the connection with the vagus nerve can slow the aging of the heart.
The research opens new horizons in cardiothoracic and transplant surgery, suggesting that restoring vagal innervation in surgical procedures could revolutionize the treatment of complications associated with premature cardiac aging.
Advances in neuroprostheses
Bioengineering has been key to this advance. Eugenio Redolfi Riva, co-author of the neuroprosthesis patent, highlighted the development of an implantable conduit that promotes vagus nerve regeneration. This technological advancement has the potential to change the way heart health is approached, offering new strategies for the prevention and management of age-related heart disease. Patients with chronic heart failure, where vagal dysfunction and autonomic imbalance exist, benefit significantly from interventions that modulate cardiac vagal innervation.since these improve heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity.
Those with recurrent vasovagal syncope also benefit from selective vagal denervation, guided by high-frequency stimulation, which reduces episodes by ablating ganglion plexuses. In addition, individuals with vagal paroxysmal atrial fibrillation or post-training cardiorespiratory fitness problems show improvements in non-invasive autonomic regulation via transcutaneous vagal stimulation.
Associated conditions. Patients with treatment-resistant depression, epilepsy, or post-ischemic stroke recovery respond well, as vagal stimulation enhances motor rehabilitation and mood. In cases of chronic pain, dysautonomia, or disorders such as POTS and fibromyalgia, vagus nerve neurostimulation relieves symptoms by regulating parasympathetic tone.
Cardiac vagal innervation promotes a slower heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and improves cardiovascular health in people with low vagal tone. This is key for those with chronic anxiety or post-traumatic stress with cardiac impact.