Psilocybin induces rapid and persistent growth of dendritic spines in frontal cortex in vivo
OpenAlex – February 17, 2021
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
A single dose of the serotonergic hallucinogen Psilocybin rapidly rewires the brain, offering new insights for Neuroscience. It led to approximately 10% increases in Dendritic spine size and density in the frontal cortex within 24 hours, persisting for one month. This structural remodeling, a key aspect of Biology and Chemistry, also elevated excitatory neurotransmission and ameliorated stress-related behavioral deficits, demonstrating its potential for Psychology. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies highlight how Psilocybin, an alkaloid, influences neurotransmitter receptors, impacting behavior and suggesting enduring beneficial cortical changes.
Abstract
Summary Psilocybin is a serotonergic psychedelic with untapped therapeutic potential. There are hints that the use of psychedelics can produce neural adaptations, although the extent and time scale of the impact in a mammalian brain are unknown. In this study, we used chronic two-photon microscopy to image longitudinally the apical dendritic spines of layer 5 pyramidal neurons in the mouse medial frontal cortex. We found that a single dose of psilocybin led to ∼10% increases in spine size and density, driven by an elevated spine formation rate. The structural remodeling occurred quickly within 24 hours and was persistent 1 month later. Psilocybin also ameliorated stress-related behavioral deficit and elevated excitatory neurotransmission. Overall, the results demonstrate that psilocybin-evoked synaptic rewiring in the cortex is fast and enduring, potentially providing a structural trace for long-term integration of experiences and lasting beneficial actions.