Neural training to improve stopping impulses in OCD and related conditions
Official title: Neural Mechanisms of Response Inhibition Training for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Related Conditions
Funded at University of Wisconsin Milwaukee · NIH-11397434 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new computer-based training helps people with OCD, trichotillomania, or skin picking disorders improve their ability to stop automatic urges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin Milwaukee NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $783,106 |
| NIH project number | 5R33MH125127-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11397434 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with OCD, trichotillomania, or skin picking disorders who have impaired response inhibition and are able to participate in computer-based training.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without OCRDs or those unable to engage with computer-based interventions may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests a computerized response inhibition training (RIT) to strengthen brain mechanisms involved in stopping impulses in adults with OCRDs. It includes an initial phase to ensure the training changes brain activity related to response inhibition, followed by a randomized trial comparing RIT to a placebo version. If the training reliably engages the target brain region (right inferior frontal cortex) and reduces symptoms, it could become a durable treatment option for OCRDs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce intrusive urges and related behaviors, improving daily functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in cognitive control training has shown neurobiological changes; this study specifically targets OCRDs and neural RI.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
Milwaukee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Han Joo — University of Wisconsin Milwaukee
- Study coordinator: Lee, Han Joo
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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.