Molecular Mechanisms in Neuromodulation: New Frontiers in Bioelectronic Therapies

Neuromodulation represents a rapidly evolving field driven by breakthroughs in molecular neuroscience and bioelectronic medicine. Current research addresses the understanding of molecular mechanisms—such as ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, and intracellular signaling pathways—that underpin targeted neuromodulation techniques. Despite significant progress, questions remain regarding the optimal integration of these molecular insights with cutting-edge neuromodulatory technologies. Recent studies have showcased promising results, particularly regarding the therapeutic innovation in treating neurological and psychiatric disorders through techniques like optogenetics, chemogenetics, and closed-loop systems. These studies emphasize the importance of translational relevance, yet gaps persist in fully elucidating the precise molecular targets and how they influence broader neuromodulatory pathways.

This Research Topic aims to bridge the knowledge gap between molecular insights and neuromodulatory technology through both empirical and theoretical exploration. We seek to foster translational research that precisely addresses how these molecular mechanisms can be harnessed for therapeutic innovation. By refining our understanding of these processes, the aim is to lay the groundwork for new strategies in treating complex neurological and psychiatric disorders with unprecedented precision and effectiveness.

To gather further insights into molecular targets in neuromodulation and bioelectronic medicine, we welcome original research, reviews, and perspectives addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Optogenetics and its role in modulating specific neuronal circuits
- Chemogenetic tools for targeted neuromodulation
- Mechanisms underlying vagus nerve stimulation and therapeutic outcomes
- Development of closed-loop neuromodulatory systems
- Translational research linking molecular mechanisms to clinical therapies.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: neuromodulation, chemogenetics, optogenetics, bioelectronic medicine, vagus nerve stimulation, closed-loop systems, ion channels, neurotransmitter, signalling pathways

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.