Neuromodulation of the Fear Extinction Circuit Using Temporally and Anatomically Specific TMS in Humans

Recruiting now · Not applicable

Conditions studied: PTSD

In brief

This study aims to explore the mechanisms of how transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) impacts fear circuits. The overarching objectives are to understand how varying TMS parameters affect targeted brain regions in order to optimize its impact on enhancing fear extinction memory consolidation in a population with known fear extinction deficiencies: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 250 subjects will take part in this research study across UTHealth Houston. The study will include preliminary screenings, baseline visits, and experimental visits across four days

Key facts

Study ID

NCT05368987

Run by

The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston

People needed

250

Starts

2022-02-01

Expected to finish

2028-09-30

Last updated by the study team

2026-05-05

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 70. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Willing and able to provide informed consent.
• Inclusion Criteria for PTSD Subjects - Diagnosis of current PTSD
• Inclusion Criteria: Healthy Controls (HC) - no current psychiatric disorders ("Axis I" disorders)

You may not qualify if…

• Lifetime history of seizure or significant head trauma or other significant neurologic disease (e.g., tic disorder)
• History of serious/significant psychiatric diagnoses ("Axis I" diagnoses)
• Current significant suicidal ideation, plan or intent or suicidal behavior in past 6 months based on CSSRS and clinical judgment or Self-injurious behavior that involves suicidal intent, requires medical attention, or occurs daily
• Use of neuroleptics within one year prior to study
• Current substance use
• Pregnancy (to be ruled out by urine β-HCG).
• Metallic implants or devices contraindicating magnetic resonance imaging.
• Currently taking medications that lower the seizure threshold. These include antipsychotics, high dose theophylline or stimulants such as methylphenidate. Patients taking bupropion must be on a stable dose (*last 3 months) and take less than or equal to 300 mg/day.
• Implanted devices in subject's head (shunts, cochlear implants); metal in subject's head (other than dental implants).
• High risk of adverse emotional or behavioral reaction, and/or an inability to understand study procedures or the informed consent process
• Additional exclusion criteria for Healthy controls (HC) group: Current psychiatric diagnosis ("Axis I" diagnosis)

Where it is running

• UTHealth Houston — Houston, Texas, United States (enrolling)

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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