Effects of Respiratory-gated auricular vagus afferent nerve stimulation (RAVANS) on autonomic-driven cardiovascular reflex in subjects with hypertension

This study investigates the effects of Respiratory-gated auricular vagus afferent nerve stimulation (RAVANS) on autonomic responses in hypertensive individuals. Hypertensive subjects were randomized to receive either active or sham stimulation during a predefined protocol, with continuous monitoring of electrocardiogram, arterial blood pressure, and respiration signals. Analysis using a bivariate point process model revealed that active RAVANS significantly increases parasympathetic tone. Additionally, baroreflex sensitivity, indicated by GAIN ${ }_{S A P \rightarrow R R}$, improved after active stimulation. These results suggest that RAVANS may enhance baroreflex control, offering a promising research avenue towards a more targeted, non-invasive intervention for hypertension management.