Understanding how inhibitory learning can improve PTSD treatment

Inhibitory Learning as a Novel Mechanism of Prolonged Exposure: An Investigation of Laboratory and Mobile Health Measures

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-11072045

This study is looking at how teaching veterans with PTSD to manage their fear can make their therapy more effective, helping us find better ways to support those who need it most.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072045 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how inhibitory learning can enhance the effectiveness of prolonged exposure therapy for veterans with PTSD. It aims to identify the mechanisms that contribute to successful treatment outcomes by focusing on how patients learn to inhibit their fear responses during therapy sessions. The study will utilize both laboratory and mobile health measures to assess the impact of these learning processes on symptom reduction. By improving our understanding of these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop better strategies for identifying which patients will benefit most from prolonged exposure therapy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans diagnosed with PTSD who are undergoing prolonged exposure therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have PTSD or are not veterans may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for veterans suffering from PTSD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar mechanisms to enhance therapeutic outcomes, indicating potential for success in this approach.

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 →

Conditions: Anxiety Disorders

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.