CHRNA7 and periodontitis: This process involves the release of ACh from vagal nerve terminals which binds to α7-nAChRs on immune cells, leading to inflammation suppression.25 Studies have observed that EA can activate the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway mediated by α7-nAChR on macrophages, alleviating intestinal inflammation.26 Moreover, EA can mitigate dry eye disease inflammation by regulating the α7-nAChR/NF-κB signaling pathway.27 While these studies highlight the role of α7-nAChR in mediating EA-induced anti-inflammatory effects, it remains unclear whether direct VNS can achieve similar outcomes in periodontitis.