NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding the brain mechanisms behind compulsive behaviors

Official title: Dissecting Neurocognitive Components of Compulsivity Using Computational Modeling and EEG

Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10887228 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the brain works in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and similar anxiety issues, to help understand why they feel the need to do certain actions repeatedly, with the hope of finding better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2025
Project endMarch 31, 2030
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$194,899
NIH project number1K23MH133997-01A1
Project IDNIH-10887228 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include adults diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder or other anxiety-related disorders.

Less likely to help

Patients with compulsive behaviors not related to anxiety disorders or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the neurocognitive components of compulsivity, particularly in relation to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other anxiety-related disorders. By utilizing advanced computational modeling and EEG technology, the study aims to uncover the brain-behavior associations that contribute to compulsive actions. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of their condition, which could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment options. The research also focuses on training a new clinical scientist to develop innovative approaches to address these challenges.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments and interventions for patients suffering from compulsive behaviors and related disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using computational modeling and EEG to understand brain mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
    New York, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rapp, Amy Meryl — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
  • Study coordinator: Rapp, Amy Meryl

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.