Sympathetic Nervous System in Heart Failure: Targets for Treatments

Abstract

Purpose of review: Heart failure (HF) is characterized by a significant imbalance of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), with chronic sympathetic nervous system (SNS) overactivity leading to maladaptive cardiac remodeling, arrhythmia, and hemodynamic instability. In this review, we aim to discuss current and emerging therapies and the potential path forward for developing future novel neuromodulatory therapies in HF.

Recent findings: Neuromodulatory therapies including splanchnic nerve modulation (SNM), vagal nerve stimulation (VNS), baroreflex activation therapy (BAT), and renal denervation (RDN) reduce sympathetic output in individuals with HF, leading to improved cardiac function, neurohormonal regulation, and vascular resistance. However, implementation of these strategies in clinical practice is limited owing to variability in response, patient selection criteria, and insufficient long-term efficacy data. Gene therapy targeting Gαi2 proteins, and adenylyl cyclase isoforms have demonstrated potential in reducing sympathetic overactivation. Endovascular BAT such as the Mobius HD has shown early indications of improvements in symptoms, left ventricular function, and biomarkers in patients with HF. These emerging therapies warrant further investigation. Neuromodulation is a characteristic method for reducing disease progression and improving outcomes in individuals with autonomic dysfunction-driven HF. Although initial studies demonstrate benefits, long-term impact of neuromodulation on HF development, symptom load, and survival has not yet been thoroughly demonstrated. Future studies should prioritize deep phenotyping using genetic and biomarker profiles to improve patient selection. Comparative trials are required to assess the efficacy and safety of neuromodulatory therapies relative to conventional approaches. Large-scale trials are needed to optimize procedural procedures, and assess the long-term efficacy of treatment interventions.

Keywords: Baroreflex activation therapy; Heart failure; Neuromodulation therapies; Renal denervation; Splanchnic nerve modulation; Sympathetic nervous system; Vagal nerve stimulation.