Brain scans reveal how PTSD patients learn to avoid threats
NCT ID NCT04770584
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looks at how people with PTSD learn to avoid certain situations, using mild electric shocks and brain scans. Researchers will measure stress responses and brain activity in 300 adults as they learn to avoid shocks by pressing a button. The goal is to understand the brain processes behind avoidance and fear, which may help improve future treatments.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could help researchers better understand how PTSD affects learning and avoidance, potentially pointing toward new therapy targets.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage observational study, not a treatment trial. It measures brain activity and stress responses, so it won't directly improve symptoms. Results may not apply to all PTSD patients.
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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
Locations
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UTHealth Houston
RECRUITINGHouston, Texas, 77054, United States
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