How fear learning changes brain networks
Official title: Fear learning-related reconfiguration of local and large-scale cortical networks
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10894291 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how learning to connect certain sights with feelings of fear changes the way different parts of the brain work together, especially in people who might be dealing with chronic stress, to help us better understand fear and anxiety disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $105,824 |
| NIH project number | 5K99EY035344-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10894291 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing anxiety or fear-related disorders, particularly those affected by chronic stress.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no history of anxiety or fear-related disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how learning to associate certain visual cues with fear responses alters the connectivity and function of brain networks, particularly in the neocortex. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover the changes in both local and larger-scale brain circuits that occur during fear learning. It focuses on understanding how chronic stress may affect these neural circuits and their ability to process sensory information. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms of fear and anxiety disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anxiety and fear-related disorders by enhancing our understanding of how fear is processed in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in understanding brain connectivity related to fear responses, making this research a continuation of established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moberly, Andrew — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Moberly, Andrew
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.