NEC Seminar: Friday, August 8, 2025, 9:00 AM
Sears 439
Speaker: Shane Bender
Advisor: Dr. Tina Vrabec
Title: Closed-Loop Neuromodulation for Control of Cardiac Function
Abstract: Electrical modulation of the autonomic nervous system shows promise as a treatment for cardiac disease. Stimulation of autonomic nerves is well-established for increasing neural activity; however, effective control of the autonomic inputs to the heart requires both up- and down-regulation of these input. Kilohertz frequency alternating current (KHFAC) and direct current (DC) electrical nerve blocks have both been shown to block action potential conduction, reducing neural activity on a target nerve. Amplitude modulation of both KHFAC and DC block can reliably produce controlled partial nerve conduction blocks. When applied to the parasympathetic and sympathetic inputs to the heart, combining electrical stimulation with electrical block creates a platform for robust control over the neurocardiac system. By utilizing closed-loop control based on real-time cardiac state measurements, this therapy can respond to changes in cardiac health as they happen, with responsiveness and adaptability that cannot be achieved by pharmaceuticals or surgical interventions alone.