Feinstein Institutes Publishes First Comprehensive Vagus Nerve Map — The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research

Event summary

Feinstein Institutes released the world’s first comprehensive human vagus nerve anatomical map, based on data from 30 donors (60 nerves) collected over three years.
$6.7 million NIH grant in October 2022 funded the Reconstructing Vagal Anatomy (REVA) project under the SPARC program.
The map provides a 3D view of the vagus nerve’s anatomy using microCT imaging, immunohistochemistry, and ultrasound techniques.
First FDA-approved vagus nerve stimulation device for rheumatoid arthritis was implanted in August 2025 at Northwell Health.

The big picture

Feinstein Institutes’ vagus nerve map is a strategic milestone in bioelectronic medicine, reinforcing its decades-long leadership in neuromodulation research. The release aligns with broader trends toward precision medicine and non-pharmaceutical treatments for chronic diseases. With the first FDA-approved vagus nerve stimulation device already in use, this anatomical breakthrough could further solidify Feinstein’s position as a key player in developing next-generation therapies.

What we're watching

Therapeutic Development: How the vagus nerve map will accelerate the design of more precise neuromodulation therapies and devices.
Market Expansion: Whether bioelectronic medicine can gain broader adoption beyond current FDA-approved applications.
Competitive Positioning: The pace at which Feinstein Institutes can maintain leadership in bioelectronic medicine amid growing industry interest.