Understanding how brain mechanisms affect learning to overcome fear
Official title: Molecular mechanisms underlying sub-thalamic influences on extinction learning
Funded at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-11166520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the brain helps people with PTSD learn to overcome their fears from past trauma, and it aims to find better ways to help them feel safe again.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $746,047 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134873-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11166520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with PTSD who experience significant fear responses to stimuli associated with past trauma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or those whose fear responses are not linked to past trauma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular and cellular processes in the brain that influence how individuals learn to extinguish fear responses associated with past trauma, particularly in those with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). By examining the role of specific brain regions and neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, the study aims to uncover why some patients struggle to learn that previously feared stimuli are no longer dangerous. The findings could lead to improved therapeutic strategies that enhance extinction learning, potentially in combination with existing treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Patients may be involved in assessments that help identify these underlying mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for PTSD, helping patients overcome debilitating fear responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of fear extinction can lead to advancements in treatment for PTSD, indicating a promising avenue for this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dias, Brian George — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Dias, Brian George
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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.