Ongoing Research Uses Computational Brain Models to Study Fear
October 6th, 2009
Typically, studies examining the precise functioning of the brain are lengthy and expensive, given the need to use advanced MRI equipment and recruit patient participants. But a student at the University of Missouri is proving that such studies can extract meaningful data from computational models, making research both easier and more affordable. Computer and electrical engineering doctoral student Guoshi Li has been using computational models to study the functioning of fear within the brain, and has found that fearful memories are still dormant after the emotional response has been disassociated from a stimulus. It is hoped that Li’s research, still in progress, might help shed light on more effective treatment for those with post traumatic stress disorder.
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PTSD is about abnormal traumatic events that happen to normal people. When either a very exciting event or very truamatic event occurs the chemical reaction of adrenalin and other chemicals in the brain permenatley imprints the memory and associated feelings in the amygdala of the brain.
Different sensual information brings about the memorie. Just like the smell of cashews brings about a 50 year old memory of a candy store roasting cashews in the store.
Yes a person can learn how to cope and become desensitized but as a PTSD survivor myself the memory of that night 37 years ago is alive and well. Even with 9 ect’s!
It is heartening to know that young stud finding new ways of making medication more efficient and affordable… it is good for the people suffering from mental health problems that new research can be conducted more efficiently and hence newer and more affordable treatments can be developed.
Funny how the brain still can remember things long after we think that those memories are dead and gone.
Fear is one bane of human psychology that none can escape, and there are several mental disorders related to this very thing-fear. Study in this field should be encouraged so as to bring relief to thousands of people that suffer from such disorders.
Great news :) Using computational models will save a lot of time, money and also make the results more accurate than before . The accuracy of results is a very important thing in health issue and the find of this study must be implemented as soon as possible by health facilities all over.
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