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Review
. 2022 Jan 22;34(2):119-128.
doi: 10.1093/intimm/dxab073.

Control of inflammation using non-invasive neuromodulation: past, present and promise

Aisling Tynan  1 , Michael Brines  1 , Sangeeta S Chavan  1   2   3
Affiliations
Review

Control of inflammation using non-invasive neuromodulation: past, present and promise

Aisling Tynan et al. Int Immunol. .

Abstract

The nervous system has been increasingly recognized as a novel and accessible target in the regulation of inflammation. The use of implantable and invasive devices targeting neural circuits has yielded successful results in clinical settings but does have some risk or adverse effects. Recent advances in technology and understanding of mechanistic pathways have opened new avenues of non-invasive neuromodulation. Through this review we discuss the novel research and outcomes of major modalities of non-invasive neuromodulation in the context of inflammation including transcutaneous electrical, magnetic and ultrasound neuromodulation. In addition to highlighting the scientific observations and breakthroughs, we discuss the underlying mechanisms and pathways for neural regulation of inflammation.

Keywords: auricular; inflammatory reflex; ultrasound; vagus.

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Figures

Fig. 1.
Fig. 1.
Timeline indicating the important developments in neuromodulation therapy (Created with BioRender.com).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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