Examining brain activity related to fear learning and avoidance in humans
Use Electroencephalogram to Study Neural Dynamics of Fear Conditioning and Avoidance Learning Circuit in Humans
NA · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT06240052
This study is testing how our brains react when we learn to fear something and avoid it, using special technology to see what happens in our brain activity during this process.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 150 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06240052 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the neural dynamics involved in fear conditioning and avoidance learning using electroencephalogram (EEG) technology. It aims to identify specific event-related potentials (ERPs) and oscillations (EROs) linked to these processes, as well as the brain regions responsible for the observed EEG activity. The research will also explore how fear and avoidance learning influence decision-making regarding conditioned stimuli and assess the functional connectivity across various brain regions during different experimental phases.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who can provide informed consent and do not have a history of significant neurological or psychiatric conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurologic disease, significant psychiatric diagnoses, or those at high risk for adverse emotional reactions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance our understanding of fear-related disorders and inform new therapeutic approaches.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on fear conditioning and avoidance learning exist, this specific approach using EEG to analyze neural dynamics is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Willing and able to provide informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * History of neurologic disease * History of seizure or significant head trauma/loss of consciousness * Significant serious psychiatric diagnosis * Significant suicidal ideation or behaviors * High risk of adverse emotional or behavioral reaction, and/or an inability to understand study procedures or the informed consent process, based on investigator/clinician clinical evaluation
Where this trial is running
Houston, Texas
- The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston — Houston, Texas, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mohammed Milad, PhD — The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
- Study coordinator: Mohammed Milad, PhD
- Email: Mohammed.R.Milad@uth.tmc.edu
- Phone: (713) 486-2754
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Neural Dynamics of the Acquisition and Retention of Fear Learning and Active Avoidance Learning, Fear Learning, Active Avoidance, Electroencephalogram