History
Processing, please wait...
Database
search
in
Filter year from
to
Language
Country
  • Enter your search phrase in the search box.
  • General search:
    • The Boolean operator AND between the terms is assumed by default. If you enter the words European Union in the search box, the system returns all records in which both words occur, regardless of their order.
    • When entering a set of words in quotes, e.g "european union", all records containing the literal term "European Union" will be retrieved.
  • Search by access fields (e.g. author, title, etc.):
    • To direct your search, choose the field in which you want to search the word or expression.
    • Search in the field assumes by default the expression in quotes, e.g. European union will retrieve all records containing the literal term "European Union"
  • To perform more complex searches, additional words or expressions may be added.
  • If you want to refine the search results, you can always access the link "search" in the upper left corner of the page of search results.
  • The search engine is not case sensitive. For example, the word congress has the same meaning that Congress or CONGRESS.
  • To truncate your search expression, use the $ character
  • You can filter the results of your search by a date or date range, filling the appropriate boxes.
Base:
BIAL Foundation
Search:
DE:"Fear conditioning"
Results
1
to
9
from
9
found.
View
Selection Description
Type Title Begin End
File085 - Role of NT3/TrkC in the regulation of fear2019-032023-07

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-085
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
085 - Role of NT3/TrkC in the regulation of fear
Duration: 2019-03 - 2023-07
Researcher(s):
Mónica Santos
Institution(s): Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Santos, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Neurotrophin 3 / Fear conditioning / TrkC / Fear extinction / Psychophysiology
DocumentState-dependent TMS over prefrontal cortex disrupts fear-memory reconsolidation and prevents the return of fear2020

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-347
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
347 - Driving synaptic plasticity in motor-to-visual neural pathways to enhance action prediction
Duration: 2019-10 - 2023-06
Researcher(s):
Alessio Avenanti, Marco Zanon
Institution(s): Department of Psychology, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Avenanti, A.
Secondary author(s):
Zanon, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Action observation / Prediction / Plasticity / Connectivity / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-347.05
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
State-dependent TMS over prefrontal cortex disrupts fear-memory reconsolidation and prevents the return of fear
Publication year: 2020
URL:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096098222030943X
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Erasing maladaptive memories has been a challenge for years. A way to change fear memories is to target the process of reconsolidation, during which a retrieved memory transiently returns to a labile state, amenable to modification [1, 2]. Disruption of human fear-memory reconsolidation has been classically attempted with pharmacological [3] or behavioral (e.g., extinction) [4] treatments that, however, do not clarify the underlying brain mechanism. To address this issue, in 84 healthy humans submitted to six experiments, here, we combined a differential fear conditioning paradigm with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) administered in a state-dependent manner. In a critical condition, we stimulated the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) 10 min after a reminder cue that reactivated a fear memory acquired 1 day before. At testing, 24 h after rTMS, participants exhibited decreased physiological expression of fear, as shown by their skin conductance response. Similar reductions were observed when targeting the left and the right dlPFC. In contrast, no decrease was observed in participants tested immediately after dlPFC-rTMS or in participants receiving either control rTMS (i.e., active control site and sham stimulations) or dlPFC-rTMS without preceding fear-memory reactivation, thus showing both the site and time specificity and state dependency of our rTMS intervention. Expression of fear was indeed reduced only when dlPFC-rTMS was administered within the reconsolidation time window. Moreover, dlPFC-rTMS prevented subsequent return of fear after extinction training. These findings highlight the causal role of dlPFC in fear-memory reconsolidation and suggest that rTMS can be used in humans to prevent the return of fear.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Borgomaneri, S.
Secondary author(s):
Battaglia, S., Garofalo, S., Tortora, F., Avenanti, A., di Pellegrino, G.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Borgomaneri, S., Battaglia, S., Garofalo, S., Tortora, F., Avenanti, A., & di Pellegrino, G. (2020). State-dependent TMS over prefrontal cortex disrupts fear-memory reconsolidation and prevents the return of fear. Current Biology, 30(18), 3672–3679.e4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2020.06.091
2-year Impact Factor: 10.834|2020
Times cited: 79|2025-02-14
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Memory reconsolidation / Fear conditioning / State dependency / Transcranial magnetic stimulation / Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex / Reinstatement
DocumentHow fast is fear? Automatic and controlled processing in conditioned fear2012

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2010
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pastas 1 a 23
Title:
2010 Grants
Start date: 2011-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2010-186
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 12/2010
Title:
186 - Brain mechanisms of placebo analgesia
Duration: 2011-03 - 2014-01
Researcher(s):
Magne Arve Flaten, Per M. Aslaksen, Torgil R. Vangberg, Odd Petter Eldevik, Jan Bergdahl, Sara Vambheim, Just C. Thoner
Institution(s): University of Tromsø and University Hospital of North Norway, Tromso (Norway)
Contents: Contents:
Bursary agreement
Application form + 12 articles (previous project team publications)
Correspondence
Financial report and expenditure documents
Progress report
Final report
Language: eng
Author:
Flaten, M.
Secondary author(s):
Aslaksen, P., Vangberg, T., Eldevik, O., Bergdahl, J., Vambheim, S., Thoner, J.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Psychophysiology / Pain / Emotion / Brain structure and function

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2010-186.23
Location: Arquivo PCA - Pasta 10/2010
Title:
How fast is fear? Automatic and controlled processing in conditioned fear
Publication year: 2012
URL:
https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/10.1027/0269-8803/a000063
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The minimum latency of potentiated startle after delay and trace fear conditioning was investigated. Delay conditioning is hypothesized to be mediated by automatic processes, whereas trace conditioning is hypothesized to involve controlled cognitive processes. In a group receiving delay conditioning, a tone conditioned stimulus (CS) signaled an electric shock unconditioned stimulus (US) presented 1,000 ms after CS onset. In a group receiving trace conditioning, a 200 ms tone CS was followed by an 800 ms gap prior to US presentation. Two control groups received unpaired CS/US presentations. It was hypothesized that fear-potentiated startle should be observed at shorter time intervals after CS onset in the group receiving delay conditioning compared to the group receiving trace conditioning. The results showed increased startle at 100 and 150 ms after CS onset in the group receiving delay conditioning compared to the unpaired group. In the group receiving trace conditioning, increased startle was observed at 1,500 ms after CS onset compared to the unpaired group. This supports the idea that conditioned fear after delay conditioning may be due to automatic processes, whereas trace conditioning is dependent on controlled processes.
Accessibility: Document does not exist in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Flaten, M. A.
Secondary author(s):
Åsli, O.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Flaten, M. A., & Åsli, O. (2012). How fast is fear? Automatic and controlled processing in conditioned fear. Journal of Psychophysiology, 26, 20-28. https://doi.org/10.1027/0269-8803/a000063
2-year Impact Factor: 1.000|2012
Times cited: 5|2025-02-10
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q4
Keywords: Fear potential startle / Fear conditioning / Delay conditioning / Unconscious conditioning / Trace conditioning
DocumentTheta and alpha power track the acquisition and reversal of threat predictions and correlate with skin conductance response2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
047 - Fear in action: How Pavlovian fear learning shapes goal-directed motor responses
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-03
Researcher(s):
Francesca Starita, Giuseppe di Pellegrino
Institution(s): Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience - CsrNC, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
di Pellegrino, G.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Pavlovian learning / Goal-directed action / Motor cortex / Fear / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Theta and alpha power track the acquisition and reversal of threat predictions and correlate with skin conductance response
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/psyp.14247
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
The ability to flexibly adjust one's threat predictions to meet the current environmental contingencies is crucial to survival. Nevertheless, its neural oscillatory correlates remain elusive in humans. Here, we tested whether changes in theta and alpha brain oscillations mark the updating of threat predictions and correlate with response of the peripheral nervous system. To this end, electroencephalogram and electrodermal activity were recorded in a group of healthy adults, who completed a Pavlovian threat conditioning task that included an acquisition and a reversal phase. Both theta and alpha power discriminated between threat and safety, with each frequency band showing unique patterns of modulations during acquisition and reversal. While changes in midcingulate theta power may learn the timing of an upcoming danger, alpha power may reflect the preparation of the somato-motor system. Additionally, ventromedial prefrontal cortex theta may play a role in the inhibition of previously acquired threat responses, when they are no longer appropriate. Finally, theta and alpha power correlated with skin conductance response, establishing a direct relationship between activation of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Taken together these results highlight the existence of multiple oscillatory systems that flexibly regulate their activity for the successful expression of threat responses in an ever-changing environment.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Copyright/Reproduction:
By permission
Language:
eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
Pirazzini, G., Ricci, G., Garofalo, S., Dalbagno, D., Degni, L. A. E., Di Pellegrino, G., Magosso, E., Ursino, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Starita, F., Pirazzini, G., Ricci, G., Garofalo, S., Dalbagno, D., Degni, L. A. E., Di Pellegrino, G., Magosso, E., & Ursino, M. (2023). Theta and alpha power track the acquisition and reversal of threat predictions and correlate with skin conductance response. Psychophysiology, 60(7), e14247. https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.14247
2-year Impact Factor: 3.700|2022
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2023
Times cited: 5|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Electroencephalogram (EEG) / Brain oscillations / Fear conditioning / Reversal / Skin conductance / Threat of shock
DocumentTrkC intracellular signalling in the brain fear network during the formation of a contextual fear memory2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2018 Grants
Start date: 2019-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-085
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
085 - Role of NT3/TrkC in the regulation of fear
Duration: 2019-03 - 2023-07
Researcher(s):
Mónica Santos
Institution(s): Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra (Portugal)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Santos, M.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Neurotrophin 3 / Fear conditioning / TrkC / Fear extinction / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2018-085.03
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
TrkC intracellular signalling in the brain fear network during the formation of a contextual fear memory
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-023-03292-0
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Learned fear is orchestrated by a brain fear network that comprises the amygdala, hippocampus and the medial prefrontal cortex. Synaptic plasticity within this network is critical for the formation of proper fear memories. Known for their role in the promotion of synaptic plasticity, neurotrophins position as obvious candidates in the regulation of fear processes. Indeed, recent evidence from our laboratory and others associates dysregulated signalling through neurotrophin-3 and its receptor TrkC with the pathophysiology of anxiety and fear-related disorders. Here, we put wild-type C57Bl/6J mice through a contextual fear conditioning paradigm in order to characterize TrkC activation and expression in the main brain regions involved in (learned) fear – amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex – during the formation of a fear memory. We report an overall decreased activation of TrkC in the fear network during fear consolidation and reconsolidation. During reconsolidation, hippocampal TrkC downregulation was accompanied by a decrease in the expression and activation of Erk, a critical signalling pathway in fear conditioning. Moreover, we did not find evidence that the observed decrease of TrkC activation was caused by altered expression of dominant negative form of TrkC, neurotrophin-3, or the PTP1B phosphatase. Our results indicate hippocampal TrkC inactivation through Erk signalling as a potential mechanism in the regulation of contextual fear memory formation.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Silva, F.
Secondary author(s):
Masella, G., Madeira, M. F., Duarte, C. B., Santos, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Silva, F., Masella, G., Madeira, M. F., Duarte, C. B., & Santos, M. (2023). TrkC Intracellular Signalling in the Brain Fear Network During the Formation of a Contextual Fear Memory. Molecular Neurobiology, 60(6), 3507–3521. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-023-03292-0
2-year Impact Factor: 4.6|2023
Times cited: 1|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q2
Keywords: Fear conditioning / Neurotrophin 3 / Erk / Akt / PLC

TrkC intracellular signalling in the brain fear network during the formation of a contextual fear memory

TrkC intracellular signalling in the brain fear network during the formation of a contextual fear memory
DocumentPavlovian threat learning shapes the kinematics of action2022

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
047 - Fear in action: How Pavlovian fear learning shapes goal-directed motor responses
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-03
Researcher(s):
Francesca Starita, Giuseppe di Pellegrino
Institution(s): Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience - CsrNC, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
di Pellegrino, G.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Pavlovian learning / Goal-directed action / Motor cortex / Fear / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047.04
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Pavlovian threat learning shapes the kinematics of action
Publication year: 2022
URL:
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1005656/full
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Prompt response to environmental threats is critical to survival. Previous research has revealed mechanisms underlying threat-conditioned physiological responses, but little is known about how threats shape action. Here we tested if threat learning shapes the kinematics of reaching in human adults. In two different experiments conducted on independent samples of participants, after Pavlovian threat learning, in which a stimulus anticipated the delivery of an aversive shock, whereas another did not, the peak velocity and acceleration of reaching increased for the shocked-paired stimulus, relative to the unpaired one. These kinematic changes appeared as a direct consequence of learning, emerging even in absence of an actual threat to body integrity, as no shock occurred during reaching. Additionally, they correlated with the strength of sympathetic response during threat learning, establishing a direct relationship between previous learning and subsequent changes in action. The increase in velocity and acceleration of action following threat learning may be adaptive to facilitate the implementation of defensive responses. Enhanced action invigoration may be maladaptive, however, when defensive responses are inappropriately enacted in safe contexts, as exemplified in a number of anxiety-related disorders.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
Garofalo, S., Dalbagno, D., Degni, L. A. E., di Pellegrino, G.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Starita, F., Garofalo, S., Dalbagno, D., Degni, L. A. E., & di Pellegrino, G. (2022). Pavlovian threat learning shapes the kinematics of action. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 1005656. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1005656
2-year Impact Factor: 3.800|2022
Times cited: 7|2025-02-17
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Pavlovian conditioning / Fear conditioning / Kinematics / Pain anticipation / Reaching / Vigor

Pavlovian threat learning shapes the kinematics of action

Pavlovian threat learning shapes the kinematics of action
DocumentChanges in brain rhythms and connectivity tracking fear acquisition and reversal2023

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
047 - Fear in action: How Pavlovian fear learning shapes goal-directed motor responses
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-03
Researcher(s):
Francesca Starita, Giuseppe di Pellegrino
Institution(s): Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience - CsrNC, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
di Pellegrino, G.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Pavlovian learning / Goal-directed action / Motor cortex / Fear / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047.06
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Changes in brain rhythms and connectivity tracking fear acquisition and reversal
Publication year: 2023
URL:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00429-023-02646-7
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Fear conditioning is used to investigate the neural bases of threat and anxiety, and to understand their flexible modifications when the environment changes. This study aims to examine the temporal evolution of brain rhythms using electroencephalographic signals recorded in healthy volunteers during a protocol of Pavlovian fear conditioning and reversal. Power changes and Granger connectivity in theta, alpha, and gamma bands are investigated from neuroelectrical activity reconstructed on the cortex. Results show a significant increase in theta power in the left (contralateral to electrical shock) portion of the midcingulate cortex during fear acquisition, and a significant decrease in alpha power in a broad network over the left posterior-frontal and parietal cortex. These changes occur since the initial trials for theta power, but require more trials (3/4) to develop for alpha, and are also present during reversal, despite being less pronounced. In both bands, relevant changes in connectivity are mainly evident in the last block of reversal, just when power differences attenuate. No significant changes in the gamma band were detected. We conclude that the increased theta rhythm in the cingulate cortex subserves fear acquisition and is transmitted to other cortical regions via increased functional connectivity allowing a fast theta synchronization, whereas the decrease in alpha power can represent a partial activation of motor and somatosensory areas contralateral to the shock side in the presence of a dangerous stimulus. In addition, connectivity changes at the end of reversal may reflect long-term alterations in synapses necessary to reverse the previously acquired contingencies.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Pirazzini, G.
Secondary author(s):
Starita, F., Ricci, G., Garofalo, S., di Pellegrino, G., Magosso, E., Ursino, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Pirazzini, G., Starita, F., Ricci, G., Garofalo, S., di Pellegrino, G., Magosso, E., & Ursino, M. (2023). Changes in brain rhythms and connectivity tracking fear acquisition and reversal. Brain Structure & Function, 228(5), 1259-1281. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00429-023-02646-7
2-year Impact Factor: 2.7|2023
Times cited: 2|2025-02-18
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Fear conditioning / Reversal / Granger connectivity / Theta rhythm / Alpha rhythm

Changes in brain rhythms and connectivity tracking fear acquisition and reversal

Changes in brain rhythms and connectivity tracking fear acquisition and reversal
DocumentTopographically selective motor inhibition under threat of pain2024

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2020 Grants
Start date: 2021-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
047 - Fear in action: How Pavlovian fear learning shapes goal-directed motor responses
Duration: 2021-03 - 2024-03
Researcher(s):
Francesca Starita, Giuseppe di Pellegrino
Institution(s): Centre for Studies and Research in Cognitive Neuroscience - CsrNC, Department of Psychology, University of Bologna (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Progress report
Final report
Articles
Language: eng
Author:
Starita, F.
Secondary author(s):
di Pellegrino, G.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Pavlovian learning / Goal-directed action / Motor cortex / Fear / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2020-047.13
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Topographically selective motor inhibition under threat of pain
Publication year: 2024
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003301
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Pain-related motor adaptations may be enacted predictively at the mere threat of pain, before pain occurrence. Yet, in humans, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying motor adaptations in anticipation of pain remain poorly understood. We tracked the evolution of changes in corticospinal excitability (CSE) as healthy adults learned to anticipate the occurrence of lateralized, muscle-specific pain to the upper limb. Using a Pavlovian threat conditioning task, different visual stimuli predicted pain to the right or left forearm (experiment 1) or hand (experiment 2). During stimuli presentation before pain occurrence, single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation was applied over the left primary motor cortex to probe CSE and elicit motor evoked potentials from target right forearm and hand muscles. The correlation between participants' trait anxiety and CSE was also assessed. Results showed that threat of pain triggered corticospinal inhibition specifically in the limb where pain was expected. In addition, corticospinal inhibition was modulated relative to the threatened muscle, with threat of pain to the forearm inhibiting the forearm and hand muscles, whereas threat of pain to the hand inhibited the hand muscle only. Finally, stronger corticospinal inhibition correlated with greater trait anxiety. These results advance the mechanistic understanding of pain processes showing that pain-related motor adaptations are enacted at the mere threat of pain, as sets of anticipatory, topographically organized motor changes that are associated with the expected pain and are shaped by individual anxiety levels. Including such anticipatory motor changes into models of pain may lead to new treatments for pain-related disorders.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Betti, S.
Secondary author(s):
Badioli, M., Dalbagno, D., Garofalo, S., di Pellegrino, G., Starita, F.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Betti, S., Badioli, M., Dalbagno, D., Garofalo, S., di Pellegrino, G., & Starita, F. (2024). Topographically selective motor inhibition under threat of pain. Pain, 165(12), 2851–2862. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003301
2-year Impact Factor: 5.9|2023
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2024
Times cited: 1|2025-02-20
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Pavlovian conditioning / Fear conditioning / Threat learning / Pain anticipation / Corticospinal excitability / TMS / MEP / Skin conductance / Electrodermal activity / Noxious stimuli / Nociception / Fear of pain

Topographically selective motor inhibition under threat of pain

Topographically selective motor inhibition under threat of pain
DocumentLearning to fear novel stimuli by observing others in the social affordance framework2025

Reference code: PT/FB
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Location: S. Mamede do Coronado
Title:
BIAL Foundation Archive
Start date: 1994
History:
The BIAL Foundation was created in 1994 by Laboratórios BIAL in conjunction with the Council of Rectors of Portuguese Universities. BIAL’s Foundation mission is to foster the scientific study of Man from both the physical and spiritual perspectives.
Along the years the BIAL Foundation has developed an important relationship with the scientific community, first in Portugal and after worldwide. Today it is an institution of reference which aims to stimulate new researches that may help people, promote more health and contribute to new milestones to gain access to knowledge.
Among its activities the BIAL Foundation manages the BIAL Award, created in 1984, one of the most important awards in the Health field in Europe. The BIAL Award rewards both the basic and the clinical research distinguishing works of major impact in medical research.
The BIAL Foundation also assigns Scientific Research Scholarships for the study of neurophysiological and mental health in people, arousing the interest of researchers in the areas of Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
To date the BIAL Foundation has supported 461 projects, more than 1000 researchers, with research groups in twenty-seven countries, resulting, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, out of which 172 published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Since 1996 the BIAL Foundation organizes the Symposia entitled "Behind and Beyond the Brain", a Forum that gathers well renowned neurosciences speakers and the BIAL Foundation Fellows which are spread around the world.
Classified as an institution of public utility, the BIAL Foundation includes among its patrons the Portuguese President, the Portuguese Universities Rectors' Council and the Portuguese Medical Association.
URL: http://www.bial.com/pt/
Accessibility: By permission

Reference code: PT/FB/BL
Entity holding: BIAL Foundation
Title: BIAL Grants
Start date: 1994
History:
In 1994 the BIAL Foundation launched a programme of science research grants with the aim of encouraging the research into Man’s physical and mental processes, namely in fields still largely unexplored but which warrant further scientific analysis, as Psychophysiology and Parapsychology.
Since its launch, applications to the BIAL grants have been increasing. Up to now 461 projects have been supported, involving more than 1000 researchers from 27 countries.
The approved applications have benefited from grants in amounts comprised between €5,000 and €50, 000. The amount to be granted is fixed by the Scientific board according to the needs of each project.
The supported projects have originated, until April 2013, in about 600 full papers, 172 out of which were published in indexed international journals with an average impact factor of 3.6 and a substantial number of citations (1665).
Among the BIAL Foundation fellows is worth highlighting the presence of scientists from prestigious universities from the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Japan, France, Canada, and many others.
The BIAL grants are promoted biannually.

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
2024 Grants
Start date: 2025-01

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-403
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
403 - The inner working of primate brain during natural sleep
Duration: 2025-02
Researcher(s):
Marco Lanzilotto, Mattia Delgrosso, Chiara Campanello
Institution(s): Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma (Italy)
Contents: Contents:
Application form
Correspondence
Research Funding Agreement
Language: eng
Notes:
Ongoing project
Author: Lanzilotto, M.
Secondary author(s):
Delgrosso, M., Campanello, C.
Number of reproductions:
1
Keywords:
Sleep / Freely behaving macaques / Single neurons / Psychophysiology

Reference code: PT/FB/BL-2024-403.02
Location: BF-GMS
Title:
Learning to fear novel stimuli by observing others in the social affordance framework
Publication year: 2025
URL:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106006
Abstract/Results: ABSTRACT:
Fear responses to novel stimuli can be learned directly, through personal experiences (Fear Conditioning, FC), or indirectly, by observing conspecific reactions to a stimulus (Social Fear Learning, SFL). Although substantial knowledge exists about FC and SFL in humans and other species, they are typically conceived as mechanisms that engage separate neural networks and operate at different levels of complexity. Here, we propose a broader framework that links these two fear learning modes by supporting the view that social signals may act as unconditioned stimuli during SFL. In this context, we highlight the potential role of subcortical structures of ancient evolutionary origin in encoding social signals and argue that they play a pivotal function in transforming observed emotional expressions into adaptive behavioural responses. This perspective extends the social affordance hypothesis to subcortical circuits underlying vicarious learning in social contexts. Recognising the interplay between these two modes of fear learning paves the way for new empirical studies focusing on interspecies comparisons and broadens the boundaries of our knowledge of fear acquisition.
Accessibility: Document exists in file
Language:
eng
Author:
Lanzilotto, M.
Secondary author(s):
Dal Monte, O., Diano, M., Panormita, M., Battaglia, S., Celeghin, A., Bonini, L., Tamietto, M.
Document type:
Article
Number of reproductions:
1
Reference:
Lanzilotto, M., Dal Monte, O., Diano, M., Panormita, M., Battaglia, S., Celeghin, A., Bonini, L., & Tamietto, M. (2025). Learning to fear novel stimuli by observing others in the social affordance framework. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 169, 106006. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106006
2-year Impact Factor: 7.6|2023
Impact factor notes: Impact factor not available yet for 2025
Times cited: 0|2025-02-25
Indexed document: Yes
Quartile: Q1
Keywords: Fear conditioning / Social fear learning / Subcortical pathway / Superior colliculus / Pulvinar / Social affordances

Learning to fear novel stimuli by observing others in the social affordance framework

Learning to fear novel stimuli by observing others in the social affordance framework