Total Recall: Lateral Habenula and Psychedelics in the Study of Depression and Comorbid Brain Disorders
International Journal of Molecular Sciences – September 07, 2020
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Promising early neuroscience results are emerging for treating depression, which impacts millions globally. Clinical trials using Psilocybin and deep brain stimulation targeting the Habenula show potential. These interventions, central to Psychiatry and Medicine, modulate serotonergic systems, influencing neurotransmitter receptor behavior. Advanced neuroimaging is crucial to understand these psychedelic-induced changes at a molecular level, alongside exploring chemical synthesis and alkaloids. This integrated approach in Psychology aims to refine treatments, offering hope for a significant impact on depression's economic burden.
Abstract
Depression impacts the lives and daily activities of millions globally. Research into the neurobiology of lateral habenula circuitry and the use of psychedelics for treating depressive states has emerged in the last decade as new directions to devise interventional strategies and therapies. Several clinical trials using deep brain stimulation of the habenula, or using ketamine, and psychedelics that target the serotonergic system such as psilocybin are also underway. The promising early results in these fields require cautious optimism as further evidence from experiments conducted in animal systems in ecologically relevant settings, and a larger number of human studies with improved spatiotemporal neuroimaging, accumulates. Designing optimal methods of intervention will also be aided by an improvement in our understanding of the common genetic and molecular factors underlying disorders comorbid with depression, as well as the characterization of psychedelic-induced changes at a molecular level. Advances in the use of cerebral organoids offers a new approach for rapid progress towards these goals. Here, we review developments in these fast-moving areas of research and discuss potential future directions.