Peripheral Nerve Interface Applications, Obesity

Definition

The peripheral nervous system interfaces with multiple organs and mediates a myriad of biochemical processes that affect the balance of energy storage and consumption. This interface has long been studied as a target to alter the balance of weight homeostasis.

Detailed Description

Health issues arising from the increasing prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome are becoming a global predicament. For the first time, more people will expire secondary to issues from weight excess than famine.

Weight homeostasis is based on the simple balance between energy intake and energy expenditure. Obesity, or excess accumulation of fat, occurs if there is an imbalance. The interaction between the gastrointestinal tract, the brain, and the autonomic nervous system controls and modulates energy homeostasis. As a result, electronic manipulation of each of these components can potentially alter signals and change dietary intake and metabolic rate. In fact, electrical stimulation or...