Vagus nerve stimulation ameliorates L-NAME-induced preeclampsia-like symptoms in rats through inhibition of the inflammatory response

Abstract Background Preeclampsia is characterized by an excessive inflammatory response. Recent studies have shown that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has anti-inflammatory properties in vivo. This study aims to investigate whether VNS safe for use during pregnancy and explore the therapeutic potential underlying mechanisms of PE. Methods Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly chosen receive N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME)-containing water (preeclampsia-like mouse model) or saline (normal control) daily at gestational days 14.5–20.5. α7nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine citrate (MLA, 1 mg/kg/d) given same time. Results decreased high systolic blood pressure urinary protein observed PE rats. In addition, mitigated abnormal outcomes. Moreover, alleviated response decreasing levels cytokines. significantly increased expression attenuated activation NF-κB p65 placenta. Discussion Our findings indicate maternal treatment a protective effect pregnant rat model preeclampsia induced L-NAME.