Effects of psilocybin and chronic mild stress on microglial activation in rat spinal cord: an ex vivo analysis
Pharmacological Reports – January 20, 2026
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen known for its effects on serotonin receptors, significantly reduced inflammation in a study involving 40 participants. The treatment lowered levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha by 30% and decreased hyperalgesia—a heightened pain response—by 25%. Utilizing both ex vivo and in vivo models, findings showed that psilocybin modulates microglial activity, impacting the immune system's response. These results suggest potential applications in internal medicine for managing neuroinflammation and pain mechanisms, highlighting the promise of psychedelics in pharmacology and analgesic therapies.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex