Brain study aims to untangle depression and anxiety by tracking how we learn from wins and losses

NCT ID NCT05384158

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how people with depressed mood, loss of interest, or anxiety respond to rewards and losses. Participants will play computer learning games and may have brain scans. The goal is to understand whether these responses are unique or overlapping, which could 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 study could help identify distinct brain patterns linked to depression and anxiety, pointing toward more personalized mental health treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not lead to direct clinical changes, and results may not apply to everyone with these symptoms.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anhedonia anxiety anxiety disorder Depression

As listed by the trial registrant

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

NEUROBEHAVIORAL COMPONENTS OF REWARD AND LOSS VALUATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion
RECRUITING

Roanoke, Virginia, 24014, United States

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