Understanding brain circuits to improve treatment for OCD

Neuroanatomically informed biomarker discovery and neurofeedback intervention for OCD

NIH-funded research Mclean Hospital · NIH-10920482

This study is looking at how the brain works in people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and aims to find ways to help them feel better by using a new technique that lets them control certain brain connections, starting with healthy volunteers before moving on to those with OCD.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMclean Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Belmont, United States)
Project IDNIH-10920482 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural circuitry involved in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) by combining neuroanatomy from non-human primates with human brain imaging techniques. The goal is to identify specific brain connections that are altered in OCD patients and correlate these changes with symptoms. The study will also explore a novel neurofeedback intervention that allows patients to gain control over these brain circuits, potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes. Initially, the protocol will be tested in healthy individuals before being applied to those with OCD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder who are seeking new treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with OCD who are already responding well to existing treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for OCD, particularly for patients who do not respond to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using neurofeedback and neuroimaging to treat various psychiatric disorders, suggesting potential success for this approach in OCD.

Where this research is happening

Belmont, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.