Mechanisms of Threat Control

Abstract

Animal models of associative threat learning provide a basis for understanding human fears and anxiety. This talk will explore how the neural mechanisms of threat processing identified in animal models are consistent with human brain function and extend this research to the complex learning situations more typical of human experience. Building on research from animal models of associative threat learning, I will discuss a range of means maladaptive defensive responses can be diminished in humans. First, I will briefly outline how extinction and emotion regulation, techniques adapted in cognitive behavioral therapy, can be used to control learned defensive responses via inhibitory signals from the ventromedial prefrontal cortex to the amygdala. One drawback of these techniques is that these responses are only inhibited and can return, with one factor being stress. I will then describe novel behavioral techniques that might result in a more lasting fear or threat reduction. Finally, I will discuss potential limitations of this translational approach.