Understanding how a specific brain pathway helps reduce fear memories
Official title: Investigation of a thalamic-hippocampal pathway in contextual fear suppression and extinction
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11049794 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work together to help people with PTSD manage their fear memories, with the hope of finding better treatments for those who struggle with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $617,737 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH136274-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049794 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD who experience persistent fear responses related to traumatic events.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without PTSD or those whose symptoms are not related to fear memory retrieval may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a brain pathway involving the thalamus and hippocampus in managing fear responses, particularly in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to uncover how certain brain regions interact to suppress and extinguish fear memories. This understanding could lead to new treatment strategies for PTSD, which currently affects many individuals and is often resistant to existing therapies. The research focuses on the neuronal mechanisms that underlie the retrieval and management of traumatic memories.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for PTSD, improving the quality of life for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain mechanisms related to fear and anxiety, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheffield, Mark E J — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Sheffield, Mark E J
Related research
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A study at Yale will test brain-based methods to help adults with OCD improve safety learning and fear extinction during therapy.
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.