Plain-English translation of NCT06834217 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
Researchers are investigating how obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects the way your brain processes fear and how different brain regions communicate with each other. The study tests whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique—can help normalize these brain patterns and improve your ability to overcome learned fears. This is basic science research designed to understand OCD better and develop better treatments.
People with OCD often struggle to overcome fearful or anxious responses, even when they logically know there's no danger. This research aims to understand why this happens in the brain and whether this non-invasive brain stimulation technique might help restore normal fear-learning processes.
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You would participate in a three-day experiment. On day one, you'll have an MRI scan of your brain and then complete a fear-learning task where you'll see images paired with mild electrical shocks to learn which ones predict discomfort. On day two, you'll practice overcoming that learned fear, and then receive either active or sham (placebo) brain stimulation while your brain is scanned. Throughout, researchers measure your physical fear responses and take additional brain scans to see how the stimulation affects your brain networks.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 13, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States