SCH: ASIC-Based Edge Al Wireless Vagus Nerve Implant for Exploring Diabetes Reversal. - Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) affects over 37 million people in the United States, signi ficantly contributing to healthcare costs and reducing quality of life. While lifestyle interventions have shown some success in reversing T2D, fewer than 20% achieve full remission. Bariatric surgery, particularly Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, leads to rapid T2D reversal, suggesting that neuro-hormonal factors play a role beyond mere caloric restriction. Understanding the nature of neural signaling between the stomach, pancreas, and brain may lead to novel solutions for diabetes treatment. This proj ect aims to develop and evaluate an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)-Based Edge Artificial Intelligence (Al) Wireless Vagus Ne rve Implant to investigate and modulate neural signaling between the brain, stomach, and pancreas. By recording vagus nerve activity and identifying correlations between neural patterns and diabetes progression, this intervention seeks to restore metabolic function and provide a drug-free therapeutic option for T2D management and reversal. The proposed research addresses key scientific and engineering challenges in neuromodulation by designing (1) a flexible electrode array and implant capable of withstanding continuous movement over the stomach for long-term use, (2) a low-power, min iaturized edge computing system within the implant to process neural signals, and (3) reliable machine learning (ML) algorithms adaptable to digital and analog edge computing within the implant for adaptive closed-loop neuromodulation without reliance on continuous external data connectivity. Through a controlled experimental design with test and control groups, the study will evaluate the implant's effectiveness in restoring glucose homeostasis and mitigating T2D progression. Clinical outcomes will be assessed based on metabolic improvements, insulin sensitivity, and overall glycemic control. This research advances a non-pharmaceutical intervention that integrates cutting-edge neurotechnology with whole-person health approaches. By contributing to neuromodulation, metabolic health, and edge Al-d riven biomedical applications, the findings may lead to groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatments for metabolic disorders and other neurological conditions. RELEVANCE (See instructions): This research explores a drug-free, implant-based Artificial Intelligence (Al) at edge approach to reversing Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), a condition affecting millions and driving significant healthcare costs. By targeting the vagus nerve, which connects the brain, stomach, and pancreas, this innovative intervention aims to restore the body's natural ability to regulate blood sugar, potentially reducing the need for medication or insulin. If successful, this technology could offer a safer, more accessible alternative for diabetes 11
