Exploring the role of the orbitofrontal cortex in obsessive-compulsive disorder
Reinforcement Learning and Obsessive-compulsive Disorder: Exploring the Role of the Orbitofrontal Cortex
Fundacao Champalimaud · NCT06566781
This study looks at how a specific part of the brain might be linked to symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder in people with OCD and compares them to healthy individuals to better understand the condition.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 230 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Fundacao Champalimaud (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Lisbon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06566781 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), focusing on the orbitofrontal cortex's role in the condition. It aims to enhance understanding of how corticostriatal dysfunction contributes to OCD symptoms, which affect 1-3% of the population. Participants will include individuals diagnosed with OCD and healthy controls, with eligibility criteria ensuring a clear distinction between the two groups. The study will analyze the relationship between brain function and OCD symptoms to inform future treatment strategies.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a confirmed diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder according to DSM-5 criteria.
Not a fit: Patients with acute medical illnesses, substance abuse issues, or other significant psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study is novel, previous research has indicated the importance of the orbitofrontal cortex in OCD, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Exclusively for the OCD group: established diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder according to DSM-5 criteria; * Exclusively for the control group: does not meet DSM criteria for any of the psychiatric diagnoses screened by the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview; * Age between 18 and 65 years-old; * Fluent Portuguese or English speaker. Exclusion Criteria: * Any acute medical illness; * Substance abuse or dependence; * Pregnancy; * Dementia; * Developmental disorders with low intelligence quotient or any other form of cognitive impairment; * Active neurological disease; * Previously known structural lesion of the central nervous system; * Illiteracy or otherwise not understanding the study's instructions; * Inability to give informed consent; * Individuals presenting with any psychotic or mood disorder condition requiring hospitalization at that moment; * For experiment 2, these exclusion criteria will be expanded by additional factors that specifically preclude TMS use.
Where this trial is running
Lisbon
- Champalimaud Foundation — Lisbon, Portugal (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Albino J Oliveira-Maia, MD MPH PhD — Director of Neuropsychiatry, Champalimaud Research & Clinical Centre, Champalimaud Foundation
- Study coordinator: Sofia Marques
- Email: sofia.marques@research.fchampalimaud.org
- Phone: 00351 210480048
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: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation