Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology

The BARVANS Study

Welcome to the BARVANS Study website! Led by Dr. Giacomo Carta and Dr. David Gomez Varela, this study aims to uncover the relationship between vagal stimulation and human balance and autonomic functions. The findings from this pioneering research could have far-reaching implications for understanding and treating conditions such as falls, heart dysfunctions, and chronic pain. 

Carta
Carta

About the Study

Study Title: Balance and Autonomic Response to Vagal Non-invasive Stimulation in Healthy Adults (BARVANS)
Lead Investigator: Dr. Giacomo Carta, PhD, Systems Biology of Pain Laboratory, University of Vienna
Duration of Participation: 2-3 hours (during a regular working day)

The BARVANS study investigates how non-invasive vagal nerve stimulation (VN) impacts healthy adults' balance, neurological function, and sensory responses. The vagus nerve plays a critical role in regulating the autonomic nervous system. Through this study, we hope to offer new therapeutic approaches to improve quality of life, especially in preventing falls and managing heart-related issues and pain.

Why Participating?

Falls are a significant health concern worldwide, with over 684,000 fall-related deaths each year according to the World Health Organization, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study offers an opportunity to explore novel solutions for mitigating these risks. Your participation will contribute to scientific understanding and could help pave the way for future therapies. 

How the Study Works

Participation in BARVANS is straightforward, and you can complete your part during a typical working day. Here’s what the process looks like:

  1. Informed Consent: After agreeing to participate, you will sign a consent form.
  2. Pre-study Questionnaire: You will fill out a short questionnaire that takes less than one minute, starting one week before the VN stimulation session and continuing for two weeks after.
  3. Neurological Screening: On the day of your appointment, you will undergo a 10-minute neurological examination to assess your sensitivity.
  4. Baseline Testing: Your balance and mechanical pressure sensitivity will be tested before the VN stimulation.
  5. Vagal Stimulation Session: You will undergo VN stimulation for 4 to 16 minutes.
  6. Post-Stimulation Testing: After the stimulation, your balance and mechanical pressure sensitivity will be measured again.
  7. Gut microbiota analyses: You will be equipped and instructed with two kits for fecal samples collection and samples will be collected before the Vagal stimulation and at the first bowel movement after the stimulation 

Benefits of Participating

Participants will be provided with a free clinical assessment of their autonomic nervous system and a free analysis of their gut microbiota composition and function as part of their research contribution. Contribute to cutting-edge research in neurology and sensory performance. Help explore potential new treatments for conditions affecting balance and autonomic function. No cost or obligation to participate. Participation is fully voluntary and can be withdrawn at any point.

Who Can Participate?

We are seeking healthy adults to join the BARVANS study. Whether you're curious about how vagal stimulation works or want to contribute to meaningful scientific research, your involvement matters. 

 

Contact giacomo.carta(at)univie.ac.at to get more information on the project

STUDY details

clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06541808

University of Vienna UZA II; Room 2D352 Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 A-1090 Viennaress