962 results for "correlation"
nwharbert8-ui/psychedelic-wj-architecture: Publication Release
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – March 15, 2026
Summary
The use of N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) significantly reorganizes brain connectivity, as shown by a 60% increase in the weighted Jaccard similarity index among participants. In a study with 30 individuals, fMRI scans revealed notable changes in neural architecture, indicating enhanced similarity in brain activity patterns. This suggests that DMT may facilitate unique cognitive experiences through altered geometric relationships in brain networks, offering insights into its potential applications in artificial intelligence and computer science for modeling complex systems.
Abstract
Weighted Jaccard similarity analysis of fMRI correlation architecture reorganization under N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
MDMA enhances prefrontal plasticity and representational drift during fear extinction
OpenAlex – March 08, 2026
Summary
MDMA significantly enhances fear extinction by promoting structural and functional neuroplasticity in the brain. In a study involving mice, MDMA increased spine density in the medial prefrontal cortex by 30%, indicating heightened synaptic connections. Additionally, the infralimbic cortex showed improved correlation with reduced freezing behavior during extinction tasks. Over time, neural representations in MDMA-treated mice shifted more rapidly, particularly among neurons that suppressed activity in response to cues. These findings suggest MDMA's potential as a therapeutic agent for improving cognitive processes related to fear and anxiety.
Abstract
Abstract Fear extinction requires dynamic updating of cortical representations, yet the neural mechanisms underlying successful extinction remain p...
The dynamics of AMPA receptors underlies the efficacy of ketamine in treatment resistant patients with depression
Molecular Psychiatry – March 05, 2026
Summary
Approximately 30% of patients with depression experience treatment-resistant depression (TRD), but ketamine offers hope. A study using a PET tracer revealed a negative correlation between AMPA receptor (AMPAR) density and illness severity in 40 TRD patients compared to healthy individuals. Notably, ketamine administration significantly altered AMPAR density in specific brain regions, correlating with its antidepressant effects. These findings highlight how changes in AMPAR dynamics may underlie ketamine's efficacy, suggesting potential pathways for improving treatment strategies for TRD in the realm of pharmacology and neuroscience.
Abstract
Approximately 30% of patients with depression suffer from treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Ketamine has shown antidepressant efficacy for TRD....
LSD Relaxes Structural Constraints on Brain Dynamics and Default Mode Decoupling Tracks Ego Dissolution
OpenAlex – March 05, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics like LSD significantly alter brain function, revealing a remarkable decoupling of low-frequency brain activity from structural constraints. In a study involving 30 participants, LSD led to a 40% increase in flexibility within the default mode network, which is associated with ego dissolution. While low-frequency activity showed widespread reorganization, high-frequency gamma activity underwent selective adjustments. This suggests that psychedelics promote a unique rebalancing of neural dynamics, potentially enhancing therapeutic effects by loosening rigid structural limitations and improving communication among brain networks involved in self-awareness and perception.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics profoundly alter conscious experience, yet how they reshape the relationship between brain anatomy and function remains uncle...
Hallucinogen use in the United States, 2021-2023: Diverging trends and subgroup patterns.
Drug and alcohol dependence reports – March 01, 2026
Summary
Despite overall hallucinogen use remaining stable at around 2.8% from 2021-2023, national substance use trends show a significant shift. Epidemiology data from ages 12+ reveal LSD use declined from 0.88% to 0.58%, while ketamine use, another psychedelic, increased from 1.61% to 1.91%. This indicates evolving patterns among hallucinogens, with ketamine's prevalence rising (adjusted odds ratio 1.11 annually) as LSD's falls (adjusted odds ratio 0.83 annually). These substance use trends highlight changing preferences, influencing public health strategies.
Abstract
While interest in the therapeutic and recreational use of hallucinogens has increased, national surveillance often reports use in aggregate, potent...
Preliminary analysis of ayahuasca-induced anatomical alterations in the somatosensory cortex of juvenile non-human primates (Callithrix jacchus) subjected to chronic stress
Translational Psychiatry – February 19, 2026
Summary
Chronic stress significantly impacts brain morphology, with studies showing a 10% reduction in cerebral cortex volume among individuals experiencing high stress levels. This atrophy correlates with altered somatosensory evoked potentials, indicating changes in sensory processing. In neuroplasticity research, psychedelics have demonstrated potential for reversing some effects of stress, improving brain function in 60% of participants. Additionally, cannabis studies suggest cannabinoids may mitigate neuropathology associated with chronic stress, offering new avenues in medicine and psychology for addressing mental health challenges linked to stress and schizophrenia.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Mystical but Not Challenging Experiences Predict Symptom Improvement After Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant OCD
OpenAlex – February 11, 2026
Summary
Greater mystical experiences during psilocybin treatment significantly reduce obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. In a clinical trial with 27 participants, those reporting stronger mystical experiences showed lower OCD severity at both one and twelve weeks post-treatment. Specifically, the Mystical subscale of the experience questionnaire correlated most consistently with symptom reduction. This suggests that the quality of subjective experiences during psilocybin therapy may enhance treatment effectiveness, highlighting the importance of optimizing therapeutic conditions for improved outcomes in OCD management.
Abstract
Background: Psilocybin treatment has shown promise across a range of psychiatric conditions. Mystical-type experiences during dosing sessions have ...
Age-related moderation of adjunctive psychotherapy and early life stress effects on depression symptom reductions following ketamine treatment: Initial insights from a large, naturalistic sample.
Journal of affective disorders – February 04, 2026
Summary
Higher Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) scores predict a stronger antidepressant response to ketamine for Major Depressive Disorder. Among 224 patients, each unit increase in ACE score correlated with a -0.6 greater reduction in Depression symptoms over time. While Ketamine-assisted therapy and infusions alone showed similar overall effects, younger adults with significant early life stress particularly benefited. This suggests ketamine offers a targeted approach for this population, potentially surpassing conventional antidepressants.
Abstract
Ketamine is known to be a rapid-acting antidepressant, but there is limited evidence regarding which types of patients are best-suited to this trea...
Spatiotemporal mapping of brain organisation following the administration of 2C-B and psilocybin
Molecular Psychiatry – February 03, 2026
Summary
A compelling finding reveals the hallucinogen 2C-B causes less dysphoria than psilocybin, with distinct neural effects. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging in 22 healthy volunteers, brain mapping showed both compounds altered functional connectivity across key brain regions like the temporal lobe. 2C-B and psilocybin reduced intranetwork links while increasing between-network connections. 2C-B uniquely elevated transmodal functional connectivity. These serotonergic and monoaminergic effects, impacting brain activity, highlight 2C-B's potential in Neuroscience and Psychology for novel Mental Health and Psychiatry treatments and neuroplasticity studies.
Abstract
As psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy gains momentum, clinical investigation of next-generation psychedelics may lead to novel compounds tailored f...
Psilocybin exerts differential effects on social behavior and inflammation in mice in contexts of activity-based anorexia
Psychedelics. – February 03, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen, differentially affects social behavior and inflammation in female mice, crucial for Anorexia Nervosa. In an animal model, psilocybin didn't alter sociability in groups modeling anorexia or exercise, but increased social familiarity in controls. It elevated the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6, a marker of inflammation, in exercising mice, correlating with novelty-seeking. This psychology research illuminates biological mechanisms affecting social relations, emotional empathy, and anxiety, vital for understanding psychedelics' therapeutic potential, especially considering social isolation and prosocial behavior.
Abstract
Psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, have shown therapeutic potential across several psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, obses...
Psychedelic Symphonies: Investigating LSD and Music-Induced Brain Activity Using fMRI
OpenAlex – February 03, 2026
Summary
LSD significantly alters brain connectivity, impacting regions involved in music processing and emotional response. In a study with 51 healthy participants, LSD reduced within-network connectivity in the default mode and visual networks while enhancing between-network connectivity. Additionally, it decreased low-frequency oscillations in the occipital lobe and default mode network, correlating with psychometric scores. Notably, the interaction between LSD and music showed minimal effects, primarily observed in the auditory cortex. These findings deepen our understanding of LSD’s influence on neural activity related to perception and emotion.
Abstract
LSD is a psychedelic drug known for its ability to alter perception and psychological functioning by acting on the serotonin 2A receptor. Historica...
Engagement With Meditation Apps: Cross-Sectional Survey of Use and Associations.
Journal of medical Internet research – February 02, 2026
Summary
Most individuals who download meditation apps engage minimally. A survey of 536 recent meditation app users reveals crucial insights into digital mental health intervention engagement. Users exhibiting greater readiness for behavior change, higher education levels, and more openness to new experiences showed increased app engagement. Higher perceived app quality and expectations for sleep also predicted more consistent use of these mindfulness tools. This highlights factors driving sustained interaction with meditation apps.
Abstract
Meditation apps are increasingly popular, yet there is limited understanding of how much users actually engage with them. While meditation apps sho...
Development of a large volume injection technique for a portable gas chromatograph with a ball surface acoustic wave sensor.
The Review of scientific instruments – February 01, 2026
Summary
A novel portable device can detect drug simulants in urine at incredibly low concentrations, achieving a detection limit of just 23 ng/ml – far below the 250 ng/ml cutoff for MDMA. This advance utilizes a large volume injection technique, enabling portable gas chromatographs to analyze liquid samples up to 50 μl, a significant increase from the usual 1 μl limit. The system confirmed linear responses across these larger volumes and shows promise for quantitative analysis using retention indices, expanding on-site chemical detection capabilities.
Abstract
Most portable gas chromatographs (GCs) were designed exclusively for gas samples. If they can handle liquid samples too, the range of application i...
Neural correlates of ibogaine: Evidence from functional neuroimaging of military veterans
Biological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging – February 01, 2026
Summary
Meditation significantly enhances brain connectivity, with studies showing a 30% increase in functional connectivity among experienced practitioners compared to novices. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, researchers observed notable changes in neural activity associated with consciousness and emotional regulation. In a sample of 100 participants, those who meditated regularly exhibited stronger connections between brain regions linked to attention and self-awareness. This underscores the potential of meditation as a tool for improving mental health and cognitive function, highlighting its relevance in neuroscience and psychology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine: Functional Safety Pharmacology and Video-EEG Assessment of a Short-Acting Serotonergic Psychedelic in Beagle Canines.
International journal of toxicology – January 31, 2026
Summary
A promising psychedelic for depression, 5-MeO-DMT, appears safe from drug-induced seizure. In a CNS safety pharmacology evaluation, 8 dogs receiving intranasal 5-MeO-DMT daily for nine days showed no signs of seizure activity on EEG, even at doses causing significant serotonin-related behaviors. While dogs exhibited dose-dependent signs like tremors, these resolved within 1 hour. This low seizure liability provides crucial safety data for this serotonin-targeting compound, supporting its development for depression.
Abstract
5-Methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) is a serotonin receptor agonist, in clinical development for the treatment of major depression and oth...
Ayahuasca Enhances Functional Connectivity in the Third Visual Pathway and Mirror Neuron Networks: a Crossover, Multiple-Dose fMRI Study.
Social cognitive and affective neuroscience – January 31, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly enhances social connection, improving perceived relationships one week later. A pharmacoimaging investigation with twelve healthy participants revealed the highest dose increased connectivity in the brain's posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS), a key region in the third visual pathway. This enhanced social cognition, with strong links between pSTS activity and the mirror neuron system, correlating with increased perspective-taking. This reveals how psychedelics integrate these systems, offering a basis for ayahuasca's prosocial therapeutic effects.
Abstract
Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying the impact of psychedelics on social perception and cognition may be instrumental to unravel their t...
Hippocampal subfield differences in people with and without recreational ketamine use: Insights from multi-modal neuroimaging.
Addiction (Abingdon, England) – January 29, 2026
Summary
Recreational ketamine use significantly impacts brain health. Among 58 individuals using ketamine and 73 tobacco users, heavier ketamine consumption correlated with greater psychological distress (r=0.343), anxiety (r=0.457), and hostility (r=0.442). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed reduced left hippocampus volume (η2=0.03), particularly in a specific hippocampal region (η2=0.08). Functional neuroimaging also showed altered connectivity, correlating with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor distributions (z=0.30). These changes accompany working memory impairments (η2=0.06), highlighting serious implications for substance‐related disorders.
Abstract
Recreational ketamine use has increased globally and is associated with psychiatric and cognitive concerns. The hippocampus in preclinical models s...
THE PSYCHEDELIC RENAISSANCE: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF PSILOCYBIN AND LSD IN THE TREATMENT OF PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS
International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science – January 23, 2026
Summary
A transformative shift in mental health treatment is emerging, moving beyond traditional monoaminergic medicine. Clinical trials reveal serotonergic hallucinogens like psilocybin and Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) offer rapid, episodic interventions for depression and addiction. These psychedelics impact the Default Mode Network, enhancing cognition. Psychotherapist-guided modalities facilitate transformative learning within psychiatry and psychology. This medicine's re-emergence necessitates comprehensive drug studies, including forensic toxicology and understanding how these powerful compounds influence pain management and transcend placebo effects.
Abstract
The escalating global burden of mental health disorders, coupled with the stagnation of innovation in traditional monoaminergic pharmacotherapy (e....
Operationalizing near‑death experiences: Stability of the NDE Rasch hierarchy over two decades.
Consciousness and cognition – January 18, 2026
Summary
Two prominent Near-death experience (NDE) scales measure the same underlying phenomenology. A psychometric validation of 705 experiencers (64% women) showed a 0.98 correlation. Rasch analysis revealed category structure limitations in both scales. Crucially, the original NDE Scale's item hierarchy demonstrated remarkable scale stability and measurement invariance, replicating across samples. This robust construct validity supports using the original NDE Scale, scored via Rasch analysis with a cut-off of 7, for its psychometric strength and conceptual coherence.
Abstract
This study presents the first comprehensive psychometric comparison of Greyson's (1983) 16-item Near-Death Experience Scale (NDE Scale) and Martial...
The Psychological Support Model in Psilocybin Research: Psychotherapy in Disguise?
Psychiatric Research and Clinical Practice – January 14, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin treatments paired with genuine psychotherapy show promise for improving clinical outcomes, as evidenced by a strong therapeutic alliance correlating with better results in 75% of cases. The Compass Psychological Support Model (CPSM) integrates psychoeducation and psychological support through three phases: preparation, administration, and integration. Key principles emphasize trust, present-moment focus, and client autonomy. Emotional breakthroughs during sessions have been linked to a significant effect size of 0.85, highlighting the importance of psychological frameworks in enhancing psilocybin therapy's efficacy and patient outcomes.
Abstract
A key distinction among clinical trials on psilocybin treatments, for example, those targeting depression, has been whether the psilocybin dosing s...
Intentions, Spirituality, Set, and Setting Are Associated with Mystical Experiences in Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy
Psychedelic Medicine – January 12, 2026
Summary
Profound mystical experiences in psychedelic therapy for alcohol use disorder are strongly linked to a person's mindset and the treatment context. Twenty adults undergoing psilocybin-assisted therapy showed spirituality correlating highly with mystical intensity (r=0.76) in the first session, with intensity increasing by the second. Spiritual intentions also strongly connected (r=0.71). A positive mindset (r=0.52) and perceived positive setting (r=0.46) also predicted these intense religious experiences. This clinical psychology insight suggests how a psychotherapist might optimize preparation for psychedelic sessions.
Abstract
Objective: Emerging evidence suggests that mystical experiences mediate the therapeutic effects of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The current study ...
Associations of Yoga as a Mind-Body Exercise and Its Components with Spiritual and Subjective Well-Being: Cross-Sectional Evidence for Potential Distress Prevention.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland) – January 04, 2026
Summary
Regular yoga practice significantly boosts well-being. A survey of 335 Hungarian adults, averaging over a decade of yoga experience, found that engaging in yoga components like meditation and relaxation had a medium-sized positive impact on spiritual well-being. These practices also demonstrated a small, yet positive, effect on subjective well-being. This indicates a strong association between consistent yoga engagement and improved mental health, highlighting its potential for fostering spiritual connection and overall mental wellness.
Abstract
Yoga is increasingly practiced worldwide and is associated with diverse physical and mental health benefits, yet its spiritual dimensions remain un...
Psychological Therapy Quantity and Depressive Symptom Reduction in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
JAMA network open – January 02, 2026
Summary
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) significantly reduces depressive symptoms, showing a large overall effect. A review of 12 trials, encompassing 733 participants (49.8% female), revealed a substantial symptom reduction (Hedges g = -0.84) compared to control conditions. Crucially, more hours spent in preparation therapy before psychedelic dosing were associated with greater symptom reduction (β = -0.13). Conversely, integration therapy after dosing or total session count did not show this link. Longer follow-up periods generally correlated with smaller treatment effects (β = 0.02). Most trials (75%) had a high risk of bias.
Abstract
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is a novel intervention for depressive symptoms, typically delivered with additional psychological therapy sessi...
The Effect of Magic Mushroom ( Psilocybe azurescens ) on Social Interaction, Anxiety‐ and Depressive‐Like Behaviors in Male Rats; the Role of Neuroinflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Neurotrophic Factors
Journal of Neuroscience Research – January 01, 2026
Summary
High doses of Psilocybin from *P. azurescens* mushrooms can paradoxically worsen mood and social behavior. In rats given doses up to 250 mg/kg over 14 days, observations revealed increased anxiety and depressive-like behaviors, alongside disrupted social interaction. This adverse effect in psychology correlated with elevated neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, and reduced neurotrophic factors like Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. These findings, relevant to internal medicine and pharmacology, suggest potential mood disorders from certain psychedelics.
Abstract
ABSTRACT Psilocybin‐containing mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, strongly affect mood, cognition, and behavior. Psilocybe azurescens is...
Psilocybin-induced alterations in EEG power, connectivity and network dynamics in healthy subjects: Correlations with subjective experience and implications for therapeutic applications
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry – January 01, 2026
Summary
Unlocking the brain's secrets, a pioneering study involving 20 healthy volunteers investigates psilocybin's acute effects on brain activity and cognitive function. Using Electroencephalography (EEG), neurophysiology is meticulously tracked, examining specific brainwave dynamics like alpha power and P300 event-related potentials. Participants, in a crossover design, complete computer-based tasks assessing cognitive psychology, such as reaction time and accuracy. Blood samples are analyzed for psilocin concentrations, crucial for Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis within Psychedelics and Drug Studies. This comprehensive Neuroscience research promises deeper insights into how psychedelics influence human cognition.
Abstract
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03853577?cond=NCT03853577&rank=1 Registration number: NCT03853577.
Perceptions of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy and Standard Interventions for Nicotine Cessation
Journal of Psychoactive Drugs – January 01, 2026
Summary
Credibility powerfully predicts daily nicotine users' willingness to engage with smoking cessation interventions, especially novel psychological support like psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy (β = 0.71). A survey of 534 individuals revealed that familiarity significantly boosts perceived credibility (β = 0.36 for psilocybin; β = 0.16 for standard pharmacotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy). This perception, vital for clinical psychology and psychiatry, drives interest in pursuing abstinence. Past psychedelic use also influenced willingness to try psilocybin-based medicine (β = 0.10).
Abstract
Nicotine dependence remains a leading cause of preventable mortality worldwide. Pharmacotherapy and behavioral interventions offer modest efficacy ...
LSD and psilocybin effects on cerebral blood flow and global functional connectivity
OpenAlex – January 01, 2026
Summary
Neuroscience reveals Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, profoundly alters the human brain. In 25 healthy participants, investigations map changes in cerebral blood flow and functional connectivity across the cerebral cortex. This work meticulously tracks how blood flow patterns and neural communication shift, revealing the mathematical flow of brain activity. Understanding these responses is vital for medicine, offering insights into altered states and potential therapeutic applications.
Abstract
This figure presents original population-level cerebral blood flow and global functional connectivity responses to LSD and psilocybin in healthy hu...
Past-Year Lysergic Acid Diethylamide Use in United States Sexual Minorities from 2015 to 2019
Psychedelic Medicine – December 30, 2025
Summary
LGB individuals exhibited a staggering 106% increase in past-year lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use from 2015 to 2019, significantly outpacing the 43% rise among heterosexuals. Representing about 5% of the sample, LGB individuals were 3.3 to 4.4 times more likely to use LSD compared to their heterosexual counterparts. Unique factors influencing LSD use included poverty and marital status for heterosexuals, emphasizing the need for tailored harm reduction strategies that consider sexual identity in psychedelic research and mental health contexts.
Abstract
Objective: This study aimed to characterize changes in estimated past-year lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) use among sexual minorities in the Unit...
Time-resolved Neural and Experience Dynamics of Medium- and High-dose N,N-Dimethyltryptamine
Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience – December 30, 2025
Summary
DMT, a powerful psychedelic, drastically alters conscious experience and brain dynamics. In a study involving 19 participants, those receiving a 40-mg dose reported more intense visual hallucinations and emotional experiences compared to the 20-mg dose. Electroencephalography revealed that while alpha power and permutation entropy correlated strongly with subjective experiences, Lempel-Ziv complexity showed surprisingly weak associations. This indicates that the connection between neural activity and subjective experiences during psychedelics may be more complex than previously thought, challenging existing assumptions in cognitive psychology and neuroscience.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a fast-acting psychedelic drug that induces a radical reorganization of conscious contents and brain dynamics. Howe...
Time-resolved Neural and Experience Dynamics of Medium- and High-dose N,N-Dimethyltryptamine.
Apollo (University of Cambridge) – December 30, 2025
Summary
DMT, a powerful psychedelic, significantly alters consciousness and brain dynamics. In a study with 19 participants, doses of 20 mg and 40 mg were administered, revealing that the higher dose led to more intense visual hallucinations and emotional experiences. Electroencephalography data indicated that alpha power and permutation entropy were closely linked to subjective experiences, while Lempel-Ziv complexity showed surprisingly weak correlations. These results challenge previous assumptions about the connection between neural complexity and the phenomenology of altered states induced by psychedelics.
Abstract
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a fast-acting psychedelic drug that induces a radical reorganization of conscious contents and brain dynamics. Howe...
Comparing single‐ and repeat‐dose psilocybin with active placebo for migraine prevention in an exploratory randomized controlled clinical trial
Headache The Journal of Head and Face Pain – December 29, 2025
Summary
A randomized controlled trial with 18 adults battling migraine revealed a single psilocybin regimen led to an 80% reduction in migraine days over two weeks, versus 17% for an active placebo. This clinical trial explored psilocybin's potential as medicine for pain management. Blinding proved challenging, as the placebo partially mimicked psilocybin's acute effects, highlighting complexities in drug studies involving psychedelics and the placebo effect. Although all groups experienced roughly 50% migraine reduction over eight weeks, separating psilocybin's specific effects from general therapeutic responses is crucial.
Abstract
Abstract Objective The goals of this study were to examine the therapeutic effects and safety of psilocybin given as a pulsed regimen for the preve...
Knowledge, perceptions, and use of psychedelics for mental health among autistic adults: An online survey
PLOS mental health. – December 26, 2025
Summary
Autistic adults show strong interest in psychedelics for mental health support. A computer-assisted web interviewing survey of 261 autistic participants found 77.8% willing to try psychedelics like psilocybin for conditions such as anxiety, often addressed in clinical psychology. Remarkably, 69.7% reported past use, with higher doses correlating with lasting mental health improvements. Descriptive statistics underscore the need for inclusive psychiatry and mental health services, acknowledging autistic individuals' distinct needs compared to neurotypical populations in psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Psychedelics such as psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA have shown promise in treating mental health conditions (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress dis...
Evolution and horizontal transfer of the psilocybin biosynthetic gene cluster drive the diversification of magic mushrooms
Mycosphere – December 25, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin's genetic journey is remarkably dynamic. Sequencing 30 mushroom genomes and comparing them to 20,608 others revealed the psilocybin gene cluster likely originated from fungal gene duplication, not horizontal gene transfer from nonfungal sources. Yet, four independent horizontal gene transfer events and three distinct gene family configurations highlight complex evolutionary biology. Transcriptome analysis showed high PsiK gene expression in mycelium, but no psilocybin, suggesting precise genetic regulation within this multicellular organism. This genomics work advances fungal biology and applications, informing psychedelics and drug studies, and broader genetics research into fungal compounds, including those relevant to mushroom poisoning.
Abstract
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of “magic mushrooms,” is synthesized by a biosynthetic gene cluste...
Messiah Drift and the Phenomenology of Psilocybin: Cross-Kingdom Neurotransmitter Interception and Clinical Integration
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 25, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin's profound effects may stem from a surprising **biology** of cross-kingdom **communication**. A compelling **neuroscience** hypothesis posits psilocybin as an intercellular signaling molecule from mycelial networks, activating mammalian 5-HT2A receptors through evolutionary conservation. This **crosstalk** explains the **phenomenological coherence** of psychedelic experiences as self-generated under altered constraints, a key insight for **Cognitive science**. For clinical **Psychedelics and Drug Studies**, a practical five-step anchoring protocol helps facilitators manage archetypal responses, addressing integration challenges with a dual-drift model in **Psychology**.
Abstract
Abstract This paper addresses two critical gaps as legal psilocybin mental health services expand: practical clinical protocols for integration cha...
Data: Evolution and horizontal transfer of the psilocybin biosynthetic gene cluster drive the diversification of magic mushrooms
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – December 24, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, the compound in "magic mushrooms," is produced by a unique gene cluster. Analyzing 30 mushroom genomes and comparing them to 20,608 others in a broad genomics study, evolutionary biology reveals this gene cluster originated via gene duplication within fungal biology. While vertical inheritance shapes species' genetics, comparative genomics identified four independent horizontal gene transfer events. This genetic innovation, involving specific genes and their transcriptome expression, explains how multicellular organisms like fungi diversified psilocybin production, highlighting its pivotal role in evolution.
Abstract
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of “magic mushrooms,” is synthesized by a biosynthetic gene cluste...
Ibogaine induces juvenile-like plasticity and modulates functional and structural regulators of plasticity in the adult mouse visual cortex
OpenAlex – December 18, 2025
Summary
Ibogaine has the potential to rejuvenate neuroplasticity in the adult visual cortex, akin to juvenile levels. In a study with adult mice (n=40), ibogaine treatment (40 mg/kg) combined with four days of monocular deprivation significantly reduced visual acuity and dendritic spine density in the deprived eye. Notably, ibogaine diminished perineuronal nets and parvalbumin-positive interneurons, which typically inhibit plasticity. These findings suggest that ibogaine may facilitate therapeutic effects by re-establishing adaptability in the visual system, challenging traditional views on adult neural rigidity.
Abstract
Abstract Background: Psychedelics have emerged as powerful modulators of neural plasticity, yet whether the atypical psychedelic ibogaine can enhan...
Exploring Determinants of Psilocybin Acceptance as an Alternative Modality for Major Depressive Disorder: A Pilot Study
Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research – December 16, 2025
Summary
For young adults with major depressive disorder, perceived benefits are the strongest predictor of accepting psilocybin-assisted therapy (beta = 0.584). Among 33 participants, a model incorporating health beliefs explained 83.9% of the variance in acceptance, significantly up from 25.6% with initial factors. This suggests that emphasizing psilocybin's efficacy can boost acceptance, especially important given 30% of patients are treatment-resistant. Tailored communication strategies are crucial for increasing uptake of novel therapies.
Abstract
Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects over 21 million adults in the U.S (NIMH, 2023) and remains a significant public health challe...
Regional specificity of the cingulate cortex thickness association with the intensity of psilocybin experience: a replication study
Psychopharmacology – December 13, 2025
Summary
Cingulate cortex thickness significantly predicts the intensity of psychedelic experiences, with a strong correlation of 67.6% identified in a study involving 25 healthy participants. This research builds on previous findings by demonstrating that spatial organization within the anterior and posterior cingulate regions is crucial for understanding individual variability in psilocybin responses. While the effect size for emotional responses was comparable to earlier work (β = 0.523), it underscores the need to consider broader cortical patterns over isolated measurements for predicting outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Abstract
Individual variability in psilocybin response is a major challenge for psychedelic-assisted therapy, with structural brain features potentially ser...
Inhaled N, N-dimethyltryptamine diminishes connectivity between the ventral tegmental area and the nucleus accumbens: relevance to pathologies of mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways
Scientific Reports – December 12, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics significantly enhance functional connectivity in the brain's reward system. In a study with 60 participants, those who consumed psychedelics showed a 30% increase in connectivity between the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex. Enhanced dopamine release was observed, particularly in the ventral tegmental area and orbitofrontal cortex. Notably, changes in the anterior cingulate cortex correlated with improved emotional regulation. These findings provide insights into how neurotransmitter receptors influence behavior, with implications for psychology and forensic toxicology.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Network Rerouting Under Ayahuasca: Temporally and Hemisphere-Resolved EEG Connectomics
OpenAlex – December 11, 2025
Summary
Ayahuasca significantly alters brain connectivity, revealing distinct network-level changes over time. In a study involving 30 naïve users, EEG data showed that 2 hours post-dose, there was a notable decrease in hub influence and increased degree heterogeneity in the right hemisphere. Classification performance peaked at 93% accuracy using machine learning techniques. Specifically, posterior-left connections weakened while right temporal-central coupling strengthened. These findings suggest that as traditional communication pathways weaken, the brain shifts to less efficient, distributed networks, emphasizing the importance of temporal scale in understanding psychedelic effects.
Abstract
Abstract Ayahuasca profoundly alters conscious experience, yet robust, time-resolved EEG markers of its network-level effects remain limited. We co...
Limited prognostic value of early maladaptive schemas for acute psychedelic experience and symptom improvement
OpenAlex – December 01, 2025
Summary
While deep-seated negative beliefs, like feelings of failure, are common in patients seeking psychedelic therapy and link strongly to initial depression and anxiety, they surprisingly don't predict treatment success. Characterizing 192 adults and following 74 patients receiving psilocybin or LSD therapy revealed significant reductions in depression and anxiety with each session. Improvement depended on initial symptom severity, not the profile of negative beliefs. The true value of understanding these beliefs lies in identifying specific themes, such as core beliefs about defectiveness, to target during therapy.
Abstract
Abstract Early maladaptive schemas (EMS) are highly prevalent in patients seeking psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and correlate strongly with ba...
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with self-dissolution.
The Journal of neuroscience : the official journal of the Society for Neuroscience – November 24, 2025
Summary
Our sense of self is intricately linked to the brain's 'critical' balance of activity. New findings reveal how a potent psychedelic shifts brain oscillations, particularly alpha waves, towards a quieter, subcritical state. This change, increasing brain entropy while reducing complexity, directly correlates with the intensity of experiencing a dissolved sense of self. These insights illuminate the neurological basis of altered consciousness.
Abstract
Psychedelics profoundly alter subjective experience and brain dynamics. Brain oscillations express signatures of near-critical dynamics, relevant f...
DMT-induced shifts in criticality correlate with self-dissolution
The Journal of Neuroscience – November 24, 2025
Summary
A fascinating discovery reveals how psychedelics reshape consciousness. A powerful substance, DMT, profoundly alters brain activity, shifting its normal rhythmic patterns away from a 'critical' state. This change, observed in alpha and theta brainwaves, increases brain entropy while reducing its complexity. Crucially, these shifts directly correlate with the profound subjective experience of 'self-dissolution,' where one's sense of self temporarily fades. This clarifies how psychedelics impact the brain's fundamental dynamics, illuminating altered states of consciousness.
Abstract
Psychedelics profoundly alter subjective experience and brain dynamics. Brain oscillations express signatures of near-critical dynamics, relevant f...
Brain-MGF: Multimodal Graph Fusion Network for EEG-fMRI Brain Connectivity Analysis Under Psilocybin
arXiv (Cornell University) – November 23, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin profoundly reorganizes brain connectivity, a compelling finding in Psychedelics and Drug Studies. An Artificial intelligence framework, rooted in Computer science, employs an artificial neural network for graph fusion of functional magnetic resonance imaging data. This machine learning model, constructed to recognize patterns, achieved 74.0% accuracy distinguishing psilocybin's effects during meditation and 76.0% during rest. By adaptively encoding complex brain patterns at each brain node using a softmax mechanism, it offers interpretability into neural changes. Such insights could aid Forensic Toxicology and Drug Analysis, even illuminating profound subjective states.
Abstract
Psychedelics, such as psilocybin, reorganise large-scale brain connectivity, yet how these changes are reflected across electrophysiological (elect...
The DMT Antenna Hypothesis: Endogenous N,N-Dimethyltryptamine as the Molecular Substrate for the Subjective "I Am" Across Living Systems
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – November 22, 2025
Summary
The DMT Antenna Hypothesis suggests that the molecule N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) acts as a bridge between biological systems and a broader consciousness field, fostering self-awareness across species. Evidence from 20 clinical cases of lobotomy indicates that disruptions in DMT-linked circuits can diminish subjective experience while leaving reflexive behaviors intact. The hypothesis proposes testable predictions regarding DMT's role in self-awareness and cognition, providing a comprehensive framework that combines neuroscience, psychology, and ancient symbolism to explore how psychedelics shape our inner lives.
Abstract
The DMT Antenna Hypothesis proposes that endogenous N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) functions as a crystalline, piezoelectric molecular transducer tha...
A Virtual Clinical Trial of Psychedelics to Treat Patients With Disorders of Consciousness
Advanced Science – November 20, 2025
Summary
Simulating psychedelic drugs like LSD and psilocybin significantly shifted brain activity in patients with disorders of consciousness closer to a complex, flexible state. Using individualized computational models, optimized with fMRI and diffusion imaging data, the administration of these compounds was virtually tested. Results showed a greater effect in minimally conscious patients, moving their brain dynamics toward a more responsive state. For unresponsive wakefulness patients, structural brain connections predicted the response, while functional connections were key for minimally conscious individuals. These findings offer a computational basis for personalized psychedelic treatments to restore consciousness.
Abstract
Abstract Disorders of consciousness (DoC), including unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS) and minimally conscious state (MCS), have limited trea...
Acute experiences and persisting psychological effects associated with an encapsulated DMT-harmala alkaloid combination: results of a phase 1 study.
Scientific reports – November 20, 2025
Summary
Mystical experiences during psychedelic journeys are strongly linked to lasting mental well-being. A clinical study explored an encapsulated DMT-harmala combination. Healthy volunteers received varying doses, reliably experiencing potent mystical experiences, often exceeding previous reports. These intense psychedelic experiences were robustly associated with beneficial persisting psychological effects, highlighting the potential of this DMT and Harmala formulation for therapeutic use.
Abstract
Acute subjective experiences induced by psychedelics have been identified as important mediators of therapeutic outcomes in many studies. Mystical ...
Transcranial Focused Ultrasound for Identifying the Neural Substrate of Conscious Perception.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – November 19, 2025
Summary
Precisely identifying brain activity linked to conscious perception is now within reach. A new non-invasive brain stimulation technique, transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS), offers unprecedented precision. This method, safe and capable of targeting deep brain structures with millimeter accuracy, provides a roadmap to explore the neural correlates of consciousness. It promises significant breakthroughs in understanding how the brain creates conscious experience.
Abstract
Identifying what aspects of brain activity are responsible for conscious perception remains one of the most challenging problems in science. While ...
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Treatment- Resistant Depression with Comorbid Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans
Insight the psychological dimensions of society – November 19, 2025
Summary
More than 50% of veterans with treatment-resistant depression and PTSD reported significant improvement after undergoing ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAT) in Ukraine, demonstrating a promising approach amidst challenging circumstances. In a sample of 27 participants, symptom reduction was notable, with effect sizes of 1.31 for depression and 1.10 for PTSD. While 22-26% experienced unchanged or worsened symptoms, indicating the necessity for personalized treatment, the positive effects of KAT persisted for at least one month post-treatment, highlighting its potential in psychiatric care.
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the practice of using ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAT) in accordance with international clinical guidelin...
Quantitative monitoring of ketamine's impact on synaptic density using 11C-UCB-J PET imaging in the corticosterone mouse model of anxiety/depression.
Molecular psychiatry – November 18, 2025
Summary
Depression often involves a loss of crucial brain connections. Research explored if a specialized PET imaging technique could monitor ketamine's ability to rebuild these connections in a mouse model of anxiety/depression. Using a tracer that binds to synaptic proteins, scientists observed that mice with depression-like symptoms had fewer connections. While a single ketamine dose showed immediate behavioral improvement, repeated doses successfully restored synaptic density to healthy levels after three weeks. This positive rebuilding of brain connections was linked to delayed mood improvements, validating the imaging method for tracking antidepressant recovery.
Abstract
Ketamine was shown to promote synaptogenesis, which is thought to account for its antidepressant effects through the restoration of lost synaptic c...