意大利新研究：修复迷走神经有助恢复心脏功能

Core Viewpoint - A recent study from Italy highlights the significant role of the vagus nerve in maintaining heart function, demonstrating that repairing severed connections can prevent premature aging of heart muscle cells and sustain cardiac pumping performance [1]. Group 1: Research Findings - The vagus nerve, a mixed nerve extending from the brain to various organs, influences functions such as circulation, respiration, and digestion [1]. - The study conducted by the Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna and other institutions found that repairing vagus nerve connections during thoracic surgery can prevent heart function impairment [1]. - Researchers severed the right vagus nerve in male miniature pigs and implanted an artificial nerve conduit, which promoted nerve growth and improved activity levels [1]. Group 2: Experimental Results - Pigs that received conduit treatment showed repaired right vagus nerve connections and maintained better cardiac mechanical performance compared to untreated pigs [1]. - Even a partial restoration of 20% of the nerve connections was sufficient to inhibit oxidative stress-induced premature aging of heart muscle cells [1]. - The study indicates that severing vagus nerve connections accelerates heart aging, but partial repair can counteract cardiac remodeling mechanisms [1]. Group 3: Implications of Cardiac Remodeling - Cardiac remodeling refers to changes in the structure and function of the heart in response to damage or prolonged stress, which can temporarily maintain pumping ability but may lead to long-term deterioration and heart failure [1].