Brain implant learns to read OCD signals in tiny pilot study
NCT ID NCT03457675
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This early study tests an adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) system in 2 people with severe, treatment-resistant OCD. The device records brain signals to identify patterns linked to OCD distress and stimulation side effects. The goal is not to treat OCD now, but to gather data needed to build a future system that automatically adjusts stimulation for better symptom control.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) device
What this could lead to
If successful, this could pave the way for a smarter DBS system that automatically adjusts stimulation to better control OCD symptoms and reduce side effects.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, tiny study with only 2 participants, focused on gathering data rather than proving treatment works. The approach may not lead to a usable system.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, Texas, 77030, United States
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Brown University
Providence, Rhode Island, 02912, United States
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University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15260, United States