Zapping the brain to forget fear: new study targets PTSD prevention
NCT ID NCT05560113
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study explores whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called cTBS can disrupt the consolidation of fear memories shortly after a traumatic event. Researchers will use functional MRI and skin conductance responses to measure changes in brain connections and fear reactions. The goal is to see if this approach could reduce the risk of developing PTSD in people who have experienced trauma.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a new way to prevent PTSD by weakening traumatic memories shortly after they form.
What could go wrong
This is an early proof-of-principle study with only 66 participants. It tests a lab-based fear response, not real trauma, and may not translate to clinical benefit.
Disclaimer
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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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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Emory Rehabilitation Hospital
RECRUITINGAtlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Emory University Hospital
RECRUITINGAtlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••