Understanding how brain function affects treatment success in Veterans with PTSD.

Neuro-computational predictors of treatment responsiveness in trauma-exposed Veterans.

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-11049041

This study is looking into why some Veterans with PTSD don’t feel better even after getting good treatment, focusing on how losing interest in things they used to enjoy might affect their recovery, and it aims to find brain patterns that could help predict who will benefit most from therapy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049041 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates why many trauma-exposed Veterans do not fully recover from PTSD despite receiving effective treatments. It focuses on the concept of anhedonia, which is a lack of interest in enjoyable activities, and how it relates to treatment outcomes. By using advanced brain imaging techniques and computational modeling, the study aims to identify specific brain function markers that can predict how well Veterans will respond to therapy. The goal is to improve treatment strategies for those who struggle with PTSD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are trauma-exposed Veterans currently undergoing Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a PTSD diagnosis or are not trauma-exposed may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for Veterans with PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neuroimaging and computational modeling to predict treatment outcomes in various mental health conditions, suggesting this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.