Training to control brain pathways for emotion regulation
Real-time Neurofeedback Training of Fronto-limbic Areas Functional Connectivity to Reduce Arousal
This study tests if people can learn to control their brain activity related to emotions using real-time feedback from brain scans to see if it helps reduce anxiety and improve emotional responses.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chengdu, Sichuan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06033053 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates whether individuals can learn to control the functional connectivity between the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the amygdala using real-time fMRI neurofeedback. Participants will be randomly assigned to either an active training group or a sham control group to assess the effects on anxiety and arousal levels. The study aims to determine if this neurofeedback training can lead to significant changes in behavioral and psychophysiological responses related to emotion regulation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old without any psychiatric or neurological disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with current psychiatric conditions, neurological disorders, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide patients with a novel method to manage anxiety and improve emotional regulation.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using real-time fMRI neurofeedback is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in modulating brain activity for emotional regulation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age \> 18 years old * other genders * No past or current psychiatric or neurological or other main disorders. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnant, taking oral contraceptives * Current use of medications * Contraindication to MRI scanning (e.g., metal implants, claustrophobia or other conditions that make them inappropriate for MRI scanning).
Where this trial is running
Chengdu, Sichuan
- University of Electronic Science and Technology of China — Chengdu, Sichuan, China (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Benjamin Becker, Ph.D. — University of Electronic Science and Technology of China
- Study coordinator: Benjamin Becker, Ph.D.
- Email: ben_becker@gmx.de
- Phone: +86-28-61830670
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.