Making Sense of Psychedelics in the CNS
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – January 30, 2024
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Modern science is unlocking the ancient power of psychedelic compounds, revealing their profound effects across four distinct biological levels—molecular to system-wide. Neuroscience and cognitive science leverage computational tools, cellular assays, and behavioral metrics, drawing insights from data science and the field of mathematics. Advanced biochemical analysis and sensing techniques illuminate how these alkaloids, from natural sources or chemical synthesis, influence psychology. This comprehensive perspective, informed by computer science and epistemology, is vital for ethically engineering treatments. Ongoing psychedelics and drug studies are rapidly expanding understanding as therapeutic access grows worldwide.
Abstract
Abstract For centuries, ancient lineages have consumed psychedelic compounds from natural sources. In the modern era, scientists have since harnessed the power of computational tools, cellular assays, and behavioral metrics to study how these compounds instigate changes on molecular, cellular, circuit-wide, and system levels. Here, we provide a brief history of psychedelics and their use in science, medicine, and culture. We then outline current techniques for studying psychedelics from a pharmacological perspective. Finally, we address known gaps in the field and potential avenues of further research to broaden our collective understanding of physiological changes induced by psychedelics, the limits of their therapeutic capabilities, and how researchers can improve and inform treatments that are rapidly becoming accessible worldwide.