Brain‑heart axis: Neurostimulation techniques in ischemic heart disease (Review)

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Neuroscience
• Autonomic Nervous System Research

Background:

• Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a leading global cause of mortality, often stemming from atherosclerosis and coronary microvascular dysfunction.
• IHD can lead to severe complications like heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death, necessitating advanced treatments in later stages.
• The brain-heart axis, mediated by the autonomic nervous system, plays a critical role in cardiovascular regulation and IHD progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathophysiology of ischemic heart disease (IHD).
• To examine the intricate role of the nervous system in the development and progression of IHD.
• To explore the potential of neural modulation therapies in managing IHD.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on IHD pathophysiology and the nervous system's involvement.
• Analysis of the impact of autonomic nervous system imbalance on cardiovascular conditions.
• Evaluation of emerging neural modulation techniques, including spinal cord and vagus nerve stimulation.

Main Results:

• Autonomic dysfunction, characterized by sympathetic overactivity and reduced parasympathetic tone, exacerbates IHD by promoting inflammation and vasoconstriction.
• Neural modulation therapies demonstrate potential in restoring autonomic balance and enhancing cardiovascular function.
• The neurocardiac interface is a key target for novel therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

• The nervous system significantly influences ischemic heart disease (IHD) pathophysiology.
• Neural modulation therapies represent a promising frontier for treating IHD by targeting the brain-heart axis.
• Further research is needed to address current challenges and knowledge gaps in neural modulation for IHD management.