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.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • UTHealth Houston

    RECRUITING

    Houston, Texas, 77054, United States

    Contact Email: •••••@•••••