Using targeted brain stimulation to help reduce fear responses in people with PTSD
Official title: Neuromodulation of the fear extinction circuit using temporally and anatomically specific TMS in humans
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10908050 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how a treatment called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can help people with PTSD by changing the way their brains respond to fear, and it aims to find out who might benefit the most from this approach.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $754,093 |
| NIH project number | 7R01MH125198-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10908050 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who experience difficulties with fear extinction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have PTSD or those with other psychiatric conditions unrelated to fear responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be used to modulate brain circuits involved in fear regulation, particularly in individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Participants will undergo a series of sessions where they will first be conditioned to fear cues and then receive TMS while exposed to these cues to enhance the extinction of fear memories. The study aims to optimize TMS parameters and develop predictive models to identify who may benefit most from this treatment. By understanding the mechanisms behind TMS, the research seeks to improve therapeutic outcomes for those struggling with fear-related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for PTSD, helping patients reduce their fear responses and improve their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using TMS for various psychiatric conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application for PTSD.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Milad, Mohammed R — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Milad, Mohammed R
Related research
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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.