Differential effects of psilocybin and lisuride on serotonin and dopamine neuronal activity and behavior
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – October 01, 2025
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring hallucinogen, significantly alters brain activity by influencing serotonin receptors. In a study with 30 participants, those treated with psilocybin exhibited a 70% increase in serotonergic neuron firing in the dorsal raphe nucleus compared to a control group. Additionally, dopamine levels in the midbrain rose by 50%, enhancing overall mood and cognitive flexibility. The findings suggest that psychedelics like psilocybin can modulate neurotransmitter systems, providing insights into their potential therapeutic effects for mental health disorders through chemical synthesis and receptor interactions.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex