Understanding how the brain distinguishes between safety and fear cues
Neural circuitry of safety, fear and reward cue discrimination
This study is looking at how the brain tells the difference between things that make us feel safe and things that make us feel scared, especially for people with PTSD, to help improve treatments that can make those scary feelings less overwhelming.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11042852 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain learns to differentiate between cues that signal safety and those that signal fear. It focuses on the neural circuits involved in this discrimination, particularly in relation to conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to improve therapeutic approaches, such as exposure therapy, by enhancing the effectiveness of safety cues in reducing maladaptive fear responses. The research employs advanced techniques to map the neural pathways that govern these behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with PTSD or those experiencing heightened fear responses in safe situations.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience fear-related disorders or have stable emotional regulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for anxiety disorders, particularly PTSD, by enhancing patients' ability to manage fear responses.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neural circuits related to fear and safety cues, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sangha, Susan — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Sangha, Susan
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 below.