The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
With
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
The experiments proposed are aimed to understand how timing and location of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in humans will impact their ability to reduce conditioned fear responses and impact the activation of their brain regions involved in fear regulation. The researchers will use a novel TMS approach to vary timing and location of its delivery so that the researchers can characterize and establish best time and location to obtain optimal impact on fear inhibition, and then test these parameters in PTSD patients and see if such can rescue extinction deficits in PTSD. The anticipated impact is to enhance our understanding of the neural mechanisms of associated with TMS use and explore potential novel approaches for advancing PTSD treatment.
Age
18–70
Sex
ALL
Healthy volunteers
Accepted
You may be eligible if
Willing and able to provide informed consent.
You may not be 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
