Plain-English translation of NCT05560113 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Read our Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder research guide →This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing a new approach using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)—a non-invasive brain stimulation technique—to help reduce fear memories in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The researchers believe that by stimulating a specific part of the brain during a critical window after fear memories form, the treatment may weaken how intensely those fearful sensory experiences are encoded. This could potentially reduce PTSD symptoms or prevent them from developing in the first place.
PTSD can develop when traumatic experiences create powerful, lasting fear memories that continue to trigger intense emotional and physical reactions long after the trauma has ended. Current treatments don't work for everyone, so researchers are exploring whether this novel brain stimulation approach could offer a new way to directly disrupt how these fear memories form in the brain.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You would first undergo a brain imaging scan (fMRI) while completing a task involving fear responses, which helps the researchers identify your specific brain regions to target. You would then be randomly assigned to receive either active brain stimulation or a sham (placebo) stimulation session. The stimulation would target the sensory part of your brain during the critical window when fear memories are consolidating. Your participation would involve visits to Emory University's research facilities for the imaging and stimulation sessions.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 11, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States