Scientists zap brains to unravel the mystery of compulsions

NCT ID NCT04580043

First seen Jan 11, 2026 · Last updated May 06, 2026 · Updated 16 times

Summary

This study looked at how a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique affects compulsive behaviors in 203 adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Participants practiced a computer task while their brain activity was measured with MRI scans. The goal was to see if changing brain activity in a specific region (the orbitofrontal cortex) could help people resist urges to repeat unwanted behaviors. This research aims to find new ways to treat compulsions by targeting the right brain areas.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic

    Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

Conditions

Explore the condition pages connected to this study.