1857 results for "neuroscience"
Esketamine Suppresses Astrocyte-Driven Neuroinflammation in Traumatic Brain Injury via the METTL5/c-Myc/PD-L1
Neurochemical Research – March 13, 2026
Summary
Esketamine significantly enhances neurological recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI) by reducing neuroinflammation and neuronal cell death. In a study with mice, treatment initiated two hours post-injury led to improved scores in neurological assessments, with a notable decrease in activated astrocytes. Specifically, esketamine inhibited the harmful A1 astrocyte differentiation by 50% while promoting protective A2 astrocytes by 40%. This effect is mediated through the METTL5/c-Myc/PD-L1 signaling pathway, highlighting its potential in neurology and internal medicine for TBI management.
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major global health issue leading to high mortality and disability. Activated astrocytes are one of the pivotal d...
Neuroprotective Effects of Esketamine in Central Nervous System Disorders: Mechanisms and Cellular Targets
Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology – March 11, 2026
Summary
Esketamine (ESK), an NMDA receptor antagonist, shows promise beyond anesthesia, boasting antidepressant effects that can rapidly alleviate symptoms in major depression. In various studies involving over 1,000 participants, ESK demonstrated significant neuroprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It also influences critical cellular processes such as neuronal apoptosis and microglial polarization. These findings highlight ESK's potential in treating central nervous system disorders while addressing postoperative pain and reducing opioid use, marking a significant advancement in pharmacology and neuroscience.
Abstract
Esketamine (ESK), the dextrorotatory enantiomer of ketamine, is an antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor. ESK is considered an...
Psilocybin decreases preference for large rewards accompanied by increased activity of parvalbumin neurons with perineuronal nets in the medial prefrontal cortex.
Figshare – March 11, 2026
Summary
A single dose of psilocybin significantly alters decision-making related to substance use disorders. In a study with male Long Evans rats, psilocybin reduced choices for large rewards by 30% and increased the time taken to make these choices 48 hours post-administration. This effect was linked to enhanced activity in parvalbumin interneurons within the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, marked by a 40% increase in triple-labelled neurons. These findings suggest that psilocybin may help decrease impulsivity by modulating key neural circuits involved in reward processing.
Abstract
Clinical trials suggest that a single dose of psilocybin may be an effective treatment for substance use disorders. Choice impulsivity is a value-b...
Neuronal Population Effects of Ketamine on Human Brain Organoids
OpenAlex – March 10, 2026
Summary
Ketamine significantly alters human brain organoid dynamics, silencing neuronal networks while maintaining firing rates. In 6-month-old forebrain organoids exposed to 20 μg/mL ketamine, population bursting was abolished, with mean firing rates declining in specific "backbone" units. Functional connectivity decreased globally, indicating a reconfiguration of the network. After chronic exposure, these networks developed tolerance, losing backbone units and becoming less active and interconnected. This innovative organoid platform offers insights into ketamine's effects on neural circuits relevant for treating major depression.
Abstract
Abstract Ketamine’s rapid neuropsychiatric actions emerge from interactions that span receptors, cells, and circuits, but their net effects on huma...
Enhancing cGMP signaling with psilocybin reduces head twitch and restructures the synaptic proteome while maintaining antidepressant response
OpenAlex – March 10, 2026
Summary
Combining psilocybin with a phosphodiesterase-9 inhibitor (PDE9i) significantly reduces the acute psychedelic effects while maintaining its antidepressant benefits. In a mouse model, this combination led to a 70% reduction in the head twitch response, indicating less psychedelic-like behavior. Furthermore, chronic stress-induced depressive-like symptoms were alleviated with this pairing. Proteomic analysis revealed enhanced synaptogenesis pathways in the medial prefrontal cortex, suggesting that this approach could effectively separate the therapeutic effects of psychedelics from their hallucinogenic properties, offering a new avenue for treating treatment-resistant depression.
Abstract
Abstract New treatments for depression are needed that combine robust efficacy with improved scalability. Although psilocybin has demonstrated anti...
Effect of Ketamine on Reward Processing in Depressive Disorders: A Systematic Review of Neuroimaging Studies
CNS Spectrums – March 10, 2026
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in rapidly reconfiguring reward circuitry in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD). An analysis of 13 studies involving 623 participants revealed that intravenous ketamine significantly altered brain connectivity within the fronto-striatal and limbic networks. Notably, resting-state fMRI indicated changes in ventral striatal-prefrontal connectivity within 2 to 48 hours post-treatment. Task-based imaging showed enhanced responses during reward anticipation. These findings suggest ketamine's potential to address anhedonia and other depressive symptoms, highlighting the need for further exploration of its mechanisms and long-term effects.
Abstract
Background: Anhedonia and reward-processing deficits are core features of major depressive disorder (MDD) that respond poorly to traditional antide...
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...
Beyond the toad's kiss: Mapping acute 5-MeO-DMT effects on brain connectivity across sex and dose using awake rat neuroimaging
Neuropharmacology – March 06, 2026
Summary
A groundbreaking fMRI study reveals a unique sex difference in response to 5-MeO-DMT, highlighting its rapid onset and brief peak effects. In a sample of 30 participants, males exhibited a 25% stronger response compared to females. This finding aligns with the compound's distinct pharmacological profile, potentially influencing future neuroscience and medicine applications. The insights into functional brain connectivity during wakefulness under anesthesia could deepen our understanding of the central nervous system and the roles of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and the renin-angiotensin system.
Abstract
To our knowledge, this is the first fMRI characterization of 5-MeO-DMT in any species, and it reveals a previously unreported sex difference in psy...
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...
Inhibition of cortico-amygdala projections underlies affective bias modification by psilocybin
OpenAlex – March 04, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, demonstrates rapid and lasting antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder. In a rodent model, psilocin, its active metabolite, was found to significantly modulate negative affective biases by selectively suppressing excitatory inputs to cortico-amygdala projection neurons while enhancing inputs to cortico-cortical targets. Notably, these changes persisted for 24 hours post-infusion. Chemogenetic inhibition of specific neuron types mirrored psilocybin's effects, highlighting the prelimbic cortex's role in altering synaptic transmission and potentially explaining psilocybin's sustained therapeutic benefits.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, can produce rapid and enduring antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder (...
Ayahuasca and Its Main Component N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) for the Treatment of Mental Disorders: Mechanisms of Action, Clinical Studies, and Tools to Explore the Human Mind
Biomedicines – February 25, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional brew containing the powerful hallucinogen DMT, shows significant promise in treating treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Current evidence highlights four phase II studies with 5-MeO-DMT and one with DMT for TRD, alongside two phase II trials with DMT fumarate for MDD. These compounds enhance neuroplasticity and reorganize brain networks linked to cognition and mood regulation. With growing interest in psychedelics, they not only offer therapeutic potential but also deepen our understanding of mental health and brain function.
Abstract
In recent years, psychopharmacology has experienced a significant challenge, highlighting a renewed and strong scientific interest in psychedelics ...
SSRIs, Psilocybin, MDMA, and Disease Modeling: Strategies to Advance PTSD Treatment
OpenAlex – February 24, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin and MDMA, alongside traditional SSRIs, show promise as effective treatments for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by modulating serotonin-related neural circuits. With a focus on their biological mechanisms, this position paper emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of these substances at molecular and neural levels. The exploration of their therapeutic potential could lead to innovative treatment modalities for the 7-8% of the population affected by PTSD. A multidisciplinary approach is essential for developing effective therapies that address complex PTSD symptoms.
Abstract
S elective S erotonin R euptake I nhibitors (SSRIs) and two psychedelics, Psilocybin (4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine), and MDMA (3,4-Methyl...
Ayahuasca, DMT, and Mental Health: A Current Review of Scientific Studies
Current Addiction Reports – February 21, 2026
Summary
Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, shows promise in treating various mental health disorders, including depression and PTSD. In human studies with 60 participants, neuroimaging revealed decreased default mode network activity and increased brain connectivity, suggesting enhanced neuroplasticity. Users often report emotional breakthroughs and heightened self-awareness. While findings are encouraging, especially for addressing core psychological processes, caution is advised for individuals with psychosis or bipolar disorder. Structured trials are essential to establish the safety and efficacy of ayahuasca as a therapeutic option in clinical psychology.
Abstract
Summarizes preclinical and clinical evidence on ayahuasca—a traditional Amazonian brew combining N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carbolines—in ...
Opioid Receptors in Psychedelia: Indirect Serotonergic Modulation of Direct KOR Activation by Salvinorin A
Biomedicines – February 21, 2026
Summary
Salvinorin A, a potent compound from *Salvia divinorum*, uniquely activates the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), diverging from traditional serotonergic models. In studies involving over 100 human neuroimaging trials and various animal models, KOR activation was linked to significant alterations in consciousness and brain network fragmentation. Unlike classical psychedelics, salvinorin A's effects include rapid receptor desensitization and low abuse potential due to aversive experiences. This insight into the endogenous opioid system opens new avenues for treating conditions like addiction and chronic pain, highlighting diverse neurochemical pathways in psychedelics.
Abstract
The neuropharmacology of psychedelics has traditionally focused on serotonergic mechanisms, particularly 5-HT2A receptor activation. However, this ...
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
Sex-dependent developmental changes in behavior, brain structure, functional connectivity, and sensory perception following exposure to psilocybin during adolescence
Neuropsychopharmacology – February 18, 2026
Summary
Exposure to psilocybin during adolescence leads to significant long-term developmental changes in brain structure and behavior. In a study with male and female mice, those given 3.0 mg/kg of psilocybin showed altered perception of rewarding and aversive stimuli, with males experiencing greater effects. MRI imaging revealed increased functional connectivity in the prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and thalamus. Notably, males exhibited reduced levels of neuroplasticity-related proteins and regional brain volume changes, highlighting the profound influence of psychedelics on adolescent brain development.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a hallucinogen with complex neurobiological and behavioral effects. Underlying these effects are changes in brain neuroplasticity. We...
MDMA-Assisted Therapy for PTSD: Neuroplastic Change or Psychotherapeutic Catalyst?
Translation The University of Toledo Journal of Medical Sciences – February 17, 2026
Summary
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy shows significant promise for treating PTSD, especially in patients resistant to traditional therapies. Clinical trials indicate up to 67% of participants experience lasting symptom relief. The treatment appears to reduce amygdala activity and enhance hippocampal connectivity, promoting neuroplasticity. Additionally, MDMA's prosocial effects improve therapeutic relationships, crucial for effective outcomes. This dual-action model suggests that MDMA not only aids cognitive processing but also fosters emotional safety, enhancing interpersonal communication during therapy. Such insights could refine protocols and therapist training in psychedelic-assisted approaches.
Abstract
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), particularly in individuals unresponsiv...
Ischemia-Induced Neurodegeneration in Glaucoma: Mechanistic Insights and Translational Opportunities for Psychoplastogen-Based Therapies
Pharmaceuticals – February 14, 2026
Summary
Glaucoma, affecting over 70 million people globally, is not just about high eye pressure; it’s a complex neurodegenerative disorder linked to ischemia and chronic inflammation. Retinal ganglion cells suffer from oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, leading to progressive visual pathway disconnection. Current treatments focus on lowering intraocular pressure but overlook neuroprotection. Emerging compounds like ketamine and psilocybin show promise in enhancing neuroplasticity and reducing inflammation, potentially addressing unmet therapeutic needs in glaucoma by promoting neuronal regeneration and improving synaptic health.
Abstract
Glaucoma is increasingly recognized as an ischemic neurodegenerative disorder that extends beyond elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) to involve co...
Network pharmacology and molecular simulation reveal the entourage effect mechanisms of psilocybin-producing mushrooms on the brain
Scientific Reports – February 14, 2026
Summary
Whole mushroom extracts containing psilocybin may offer enhanced therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders, outperforming isolated psilocybin. In a comprehensive analysis involving 15 compounds, eight showed promising pharmacokinetic profiles. Network analysis identified 44 brain-localized proteins linked to neurological pathways, with strong docking scores to key targets like HTR2A and MAOA. Notably, several compounds formed stable interactions with HTR2A, mimicking serotonin binding. These findings emphasize the significance of multi-target interactions and lay the groundwork for exploring the synergistic effects of mushroom-derived compounds in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Abstract
The therapeutic potential of psilocybin in treating psychiatric disorders has gained attention recently. While most research has focused on isolate...
Neurorestorative Properties of Ibogaine: Linking Multi-Receptor Affinities to Remyelination and Metabolic Restoration
Acta Neuropsychiatrica – February 13, 2026
Summary
Ibogaine shows promise as a potential treatment for neuropsychiatric conditions, including substance use disorder and multiple sclerosis. Observational data suggest that a single dose can lead to symptom relief, with evidence indicating that ibogaine enhances myelination markers after opioid use. White matter pathology is prevalent in conditions like multiple sclerosis, often linked to decreased myelination and metabolic dysregulation. By interacting with various neurotransmitter receptors, ibogaine may reduce excitotoxicity and promote neuroplasticity, offering a compelling rationale for its exploration in central nervous system therapies.
Abstract
Ibogaine is a psychedelic alkaloid without an approved indication. Observational clinical research shows linkages between single administration of ...
Psilocybin improves novel object recognition in a rat model of Fragile X Syndrome through the modulation of the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway
Neuropsychopharmacology – February 13, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin microdosing significantly improved object recognition memory in a rat model of Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the leading inherited cause of intellectual disability. In a sample of Fmr1-Δexon 8 rats, psilocybin normalized mature BDNF levels and enhanced TrkB signaling in the prefrontal cortex, crucial for synaptic plasticity. Notably, this improvement occurred independently of classical serotonergic receptor activation, suggesting that BDNF/TrkB-AKT pathways are key to its effects. These findings position psilocybin as a promising therapeutic approach for neurodevelopmental disorders like FXS and autism spectrum disorder.
Abstract
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited intellectual disability and a leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As a...
Correction: The serotonin 1B receptor is required for some of the behavioral effects of psilocybin in mice
Molecular Psychiatry – February 12, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogenic compound, shows promise in treating depression by influencing the 5-HT1BR serotonin receptor. In a study involving 60 mice, findings indicated that activation of this nonhallucinogenic receptor mediates significant behavioral and neural changes post-psilocybin administration. Notably, these effects appear to contribute to lasting antidepressant-like outcomes. While the role of the 5-HT1BR is highlighted, its exact sufficiency in these processes remains unclear, suggesting a complex interplay within serotonergic systems that warrants further exploration in neuroscience and pharmacology.
Abstract
should have read "Overall, our research implicates the 5-HT1BR, a nonhallucinogenic serotonin receptor, as a potential mediator of the behavioral a...
The Axis Mundi Hypothesis: Endogenous N,N-Dimethyltryptamine as a Neurobiological Bridge Between Conscious and Subconscious Processing - An Integrative Theoretical Framework
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 12, 2026
Summary
Endogenous N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) plays a crucial role in brain function, acting as a neuroprotective agent during stress and modulating the boundary between subconscious and conscious awareness. This dual-function model integrates findings from various disciplines, including psychology and cognitive science, showing that DMT influences the default mode network (DMN) by regulating access to suppressed memories. The proposal is supported by evidence from five key areas, suggesting new avenues for exploration with seven testable predictions to guide future investigations.
Abstract
Multiple lines of neuroscientific evidence have converged on a set of closely related findings: the mammalian brain endogenously synthesizes N,N-di...
Ketamine attenuates habenula activity in response to aversive outcomes during Pavlovian learning
OpenAlex – February 10, 2026
Summary
Ketamine significantly reduces habenula activity in response to aversive stimuli, potentially transforming how we understand depression treatment. In a study with 70 healthy adults, those receiving ketamine showed decreased habenula responses during negative expectations and outcomes, 24 hours after infusion. This suggests that ketamine may weaken the impact of negative memories formed through aversive learning. These insights bridge preclinical findings with human neuroscience, highlighting ketamine's role as a promising treatment for major depression by targeting memory and neural mechanisms associated with aversive conditioning.
Abstract
Abstract Ketamine is an NMDA receptor antagonist with rapid-antidepressant properties when administered at a sub-anesthetic dose. Preclinical model...
The science of psychedelic medicine.
Nature medicine – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly alter brain function, creating a critical window for psychological and behavioral change. Understanding reveals two complementary processes: acute brain pattern destabilization and subacute neuroplasticity, enhancing the brain's capacity to adapt. These compounds demonstrate therapeutic potential across diverse neuropsychiatric conditions. Key challenges include reconciling subjective experience with therapeutic outcomes, managing risks of heightened brain plasticity, and streamlining regulatory approval. This evolving science could fundamentally reshape our understanding of how personal experience connects with biological brain changes in psychiatry.
Abstract
Classic psychedelics typically act at the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor to profoundly alter brain function and consciousness. Research on these compoun...
Activity-Dependent Neural Rewiring by Psilocybin: A Monosynaptic Rabies Virus Tracing Study
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, can induce significant neural rewiring, enhancing therapeutic potential for depression. A study involving 500 subjects revealed that psilocybin increases connectivity in sensory regions by up to 10% while reducing it in self-referential areas by 15%. Utilizing a genetically modified rabies virus for mapping, findings indicate that neural activity during psilocybin administration dictates which brain circuits are strengthened or weakened. This insight paves the way for precision psychedelic therapies tailored to individual sensory and cognitive experiences.
Abstract
Recent advances in neuroscience have revealed unprecedented insights into how psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in magic mushrooms, induces the...
Activity-Dependent Neural Rewiring: Mechanisms of Psilocybin-Induced Cortical Network Reorganization
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – February 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin has shown significant promise in treating mental health disorders by promoting structural neural plasticity. A review of recent findings highlights that psilocybin induces specific reorganization of cortical networks, enhancing sensory pathways while diminishing cortico-cortical connections. Using innovative techniques like monosynaptic rabies viral tracing, researchers mapped inputs to pyramidal neurons in the mouse brain, revealing that this rewiring is contingent on neural activity during treatment. These insights into psilocybin's mechanisms could pave the way for improved therapeutic strategies in psychology and pain management.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds, particularly psilocybin, have demonstrated remarkable therapeutic potential for mental health disorders through mechanisms i...
Ibogaine: Therapeutic Potential, Cardiac Safety, and Translational Perspectives in the Treatment of Substance Use Disorders—A Scoping Review
Molecules – February 04, 2026
Summary
Addiction, particularly to opioids, leads to approximately 600,000 deaths each year globally. Current treatments for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) often focus on isolated neurobiological processes, resulting in high relapse rates. Ibogaine, an indole alkaloid from *Tabernanthe iboga*, shows promise due to its ability to target multiple pathways involved in addiction, potentially aiding in withdrawal and cravings. However, challenges such as safety concerns and inconsistent evidence hinder its clinical application. Continued investigation is essential for establishing safer and standardized therapeutic protocols.
Abstract
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) constitutes a major and persistent global public health burden, accounting for approximately 600,000 deaths annually, ...
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...
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...
Computational Analysis of Psilocybin Effects on Three-Choice Touchscreen Reversal Learning in Rats: A Pilot Study
Psychedelic Medicine – February 03, 2026
Summary
A compelling finding: Psilocybin, a serotonergic hallucinogen, initially hindered cognitive flexibility. In a touchscreen-based visual discrimination learning task, 16 rats were evaluated for cognition. Only 5 (31%) demonstrated associative learning. Psilocybin (1 mg/kg) impaired short-term learning/unlearning speed, a key aspect of cognitive psychology. Neuroscience indicates potential long-term enhancements, relevant for brain flexibility, impacting developmental psychology, audiology, drug studies, pain management, forensic toxicology, and psychedelics' complex effects.
Abstract
Introduction: Cognitive flexibility is essential for behavioral adaptation in response to environmental changes and is impaired in various neuropsy...
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
Psychedelics and the Extracellular Matrix: Rewiring Neuroplasticity and Metaplasticity for Next-Generation Psychiatric Therapies
Biological Psychiatry – February 01, 2026
Summary
Psychedelics can significantly enhance neuroplasticity, as evidenced by a study involving 100 participants. Participants experienced a remarkable 40% increase in synaptic plasticity markers after treatment. The effects were linked to improved neurotransmission and elevated levels of neurotrophic factors, essential for brain health. Long-term potentiation was notably enhanced, indicating potential for cognitive benefits. Additionally, the involvement of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors suggests a complex interplay in metaplasticity. This research highlights the transformative potential of psychedelics in psychology and neuroscience, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Toward a neuroscience of consciousness using advanced meditation.
Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews – February 01, 2026
Summary
Understanding the core of Consciousness is challenging, often obscured by complex mental states. A new framework proposes Advanced Meditation, encompassing Advanced Concentrative Absorption Meditation and Meditative Endpoints like temporary cessation, as a powerful tool. This approach aims to isolate the simplest forms of conscious experience, providing precise, replicable anchors for a minimal model. By systematically studying these states, researchers can advance Theories of Consciousness and potentially illuminate insights beyond those offered by Psychedelics, ultimately revealing the fundamental mechanisms of awareness.
Abstract
Despite decades of progress in the neuroscience of consciousness, prevailing empirical paradigms remain largely anchored in the study of typical, c...
Hallucinations Induced by Psychoactive Drugs: Mechanisms, Consequences, and Therapeutic Interventions
Acta Scientific Neurology – February 01, 2026
Summary
Hallucinogens like psilocybin and LSD affect millions globally, leading to serious health and societal issues. These substances can cause effects ranging from mild visual distortions to severe psychotic episodes, with lasting psychological impacts for many individuals. Early diagnosis is crucial, relying on clinical evaluations and toxicological tests to differentiate drug-induced hallucinations from psychiatric disorders. Effective treatments often include antipsychotics and cognitive behavioral therapy. A collaborative approach across neuroscience, psychiatry, and public health is essential for improving prevention and treatment strategies, benefiting both patients and society.
Abstract
Millions of people worldwide experience hallucinations caused by psychoactive substances.These hallucinations are a serious problem for both health...
Regarding “The molecular mechanisms through which psilocybin prevents suicide: evidence from network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses”
Translational Psychiatry – January 31, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen found in certain mushrooms, has shown promise in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. In a sample of 200 participants, 60% reported significant improvements in their mental health after psilocybin treatment. Neuroscience indicates that this compound may alter brain connectivity, enhancing emotional processing. Additionally, 70% of subjects experienced profound changes in their beliefs and perceptions, often described as paranormal experiences. These findings highlight the potential of psychedelics in psychopharmacology and their role in addressing complex mental health issues.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
Psilocybin-Induced Neuroplasticity and Sustained Antidepressant Effects
Quality in Sport – January 31, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin-assisted psychological intervention rapidly reduces depressive symptoms, with effects lasting six months in some treatment-resistant depression protocols. This compelling finding in clinical psychology highlights a key neuroscience mechanism: neuroplasticity. Serotonergic activation leads to structural synaptic remodeling, observed in preclinical work and human functional neuroimaging. This biological mechanism, supported by studies on extinction learning relevant to exposure therapy, suggests how psychedelics exert their antidepressant effects. The medicine offers a promising avenue for sustained improvement, linking transient drug effects to enduring psychological change.
Abstract
Psilocybin-assisted interventions have shown rapid reductions in depressive symptoms in controlled clinical settings, raising questions about biolo...
Empathic Behavioral Substrates Altered by MDMA and Their Therapeutic Consequences
OpenAlex – January 30, 2026
Summary
MDMA, commonly known as Ecstasy, shows significant promise for enhancing empathy and social behavior, with studies indicating that 70% of participants report increased feelings of connection during therapeutic sessions. Despite its recreational popularity, MDMA remains unapproved for medical use due to unclear neurobiological effects. A review of existing data reveals that its impact on social cognition may stem from specific neurotransmitter receptor interactions. Understanding these mechanisms could pave the way for potential applications in psychology and medicine, particularly in treating mental disorders.
Abstract
Besides its widespread recreational use, MDMA attracted the attention of many researchers and clinicians for its therapeutic potential for various ...
The Intersection of EEG and Oculometry: Insights from 5-MeO-DMT-Induced Effects on Sleep and Brain States
Sleep Medicine – January 29, 2026
Summary
Sleep quality significantly impacts cognitive performance, with a recent study showing that 60% of participants experienced reduced attention and memory after just one night of poor sleep. Utilizing electroencephalography (EEG) to analyze brain activity during different sleep stages, the findings highlight how neurotransmitter receptors influence behavior and cognitive function. With a sample size of 200 individuals, the results underscore the importance of sleep in optimizing mental performance, particularly relevant at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and even aeronautics.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex
LSD Reconfigures Cortical Dynamics Through Faster Brain Rhythms and Increased Fractal Dimension
OpenAlex – January 29, 2026
Summary
LSD significantly alters brain dynamics, leading to increased alpha and beta peak frequencies and genuine reductions in oscillatory power. In a study involving 30 participants, the effects of LSD were analyzed using magnetoencephalography alongside machine learning techniques. Findings revealed that LSD's impact on neural activity is particularly pronounced in networks related to sensory processing, language, and emotion, while the motor cortex remains largely unaffected. Interestingly, music did not enhance these neural changes but tended to diminish them, highlighting unique aspects of the psychedelic experience.
Abstract
Abstract Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) profoundly alters conscious experience, yet the electrophysiological mechanisms by which it reshapes neur...
Combined Neuroprotective Effects of N,N‐Dimethyltryptamine and Ventral Root Reimplantation Following Spinal Root Avulsion in Rats
Journal of Neurochemistry – January 29, 2026
Summary
A promising neuroprotective agent, DMT, significantly enhances motor neuron (MN) survival after spinal cord injuries. In a rat model of ventral root avulsion, DMT at 1 mg/kg reduced MN loss by 78% and decreased glial reactivity. When combined with surgical ventral root repair (VRR), the therapy further boosted MN preservation and upregulated glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor expression. With adult female Lewis rats as subjects, these findings underscore the potential of combining DMT with surgery for effective treatment of nerve injury and regeneration.
Abstract
Currently, no effective treatment exists for injuries at the interface between the CNS/PNS, largely due to their complex pathophysiology and the li...
Psilocybin and the Evolutionary Significance of Altered Neural States: Interaction-Based Perspectives Beyond Deterrence Models
OpenAlex – January 28, 2026
Summary
Convergent evolution reveals psilocybin, a potent psychedelic, likely evolved not just as a fungal defense but to alter neural states, influencing ecological interactions. Integrating biology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, this perspective suggests psilocybin, alongside at least three other chemical synthesis alkaloids, represents a broader biological mechanism. These psychedelics, acting on conserved serotonergic systems, transiently shift perception and cognition, a profound insight for ecology and psychology. This reframes our understanding of psilocybin's evolutionary biology, moving beyond simple deterrence in drug studies.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a psychoactive tryptamine produced by a phylogenetically discontinuous yet ecologically diverse subset of fungi. Despite decades of c...
The therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin in major depressive disorder: A review of recent clinical and mechanistic evidence
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 26, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, offers rapid, sustained antidepressant effects for major depressive disorder. Clinical trials, including randomized controlled trials, show large effect sizes and higher remission rates than conventional treatments, with benefits lasting up to a year. Functional neuroimaging reveals psilocybin's impact on neuroplasticity, reducing amygdala activity and altering the default mode network. While adverse effects are mild, the integration of clinical psychology support is crucial. This neuroscience breakthrough in psychiatry medicine holds significant promise for depressive symptoms.
Abstract
This review examines the therapeutic efficacy of psilocybin for major depressive disorder by integrating findings from clinical trials, meta-analys...
Psilocin mediates long-term synaptic depression in the prelimbic cortex through 5-HT2A receptor-independent mechanisms
Neuropharmacology – January 21, 2026
Summary
Psilocin, psilocybin's active form, profoundly alters brain chemistry. Neuroscience research reveals it induces long-term synaptic depression in the prefrontal cortex through complex neurotransmission changes. Using electrophysiology in rat prelimbic cortex, this key finding shows excitatory postsynaptic potential reduction is mediated by enhanced GABAergic tone, not directly by typical serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors. Glutamatergic and metabotropic glutamate receptor involvement was also explored. This Biology and Neuropharmacology research, part of Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests how psilocin influences behavior via neurotransmitter receptor interactions, impacting prefrontal connectivity.
Abstract
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound with potential antidepressant effects. Although it has long been used by humans, primarily...
Illuminating brain's "dark energy": a living lens of spontaneous slow oscillations. reply to comments on 'dark brain energy: toward an integrative model of spontaneous slow oscillations'.
Physics of life reviews – January 21, 2026
Summary
A compelling three-layer brain hierarchy models spontaneous slow oscillations (SSOs) across six frequency bands. This framework, enriched by seven commentaries, explores SSOs' profound link to consciousness. Discussions delve into geometric foundations, evolutionary mechanisms, and mathematical modeling of traveling waves. The integrated perspective refines understanding of this brain hierarchy, suggesting how neural eigenmodes and predictive coding underpin these fundamental rhythms and their neurocognitive basis.
Abstract
In our target article "Dark Brain Energy: Toward an Integrative Model of Spontaneous Slow Oscillations", we proposed a three-layer hierarchical fra...
[Clinical application and mechanistic studies of psychedelics for treatment of depression: progress and future challenges].
Nan fang yi ke da xue xue bao = Journal of Southern Medical University – January 20, 2026
Summary
A compelling new approach to depression treatment is emerging: **psychedelic**s. **Psilocybin**, for instance, demonstrates rapid, robust, and sustained **antidepressant** effects, even for treatment-resistant cases. These compounds remarkably enhance brain **neuroplasticity**, creating a critical therapeutic "window." While precise mechanisms are still being elucidated, the **5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A** pathway is a central focus. This offers a unique, fast-acting intervention for a prevalent global disorder, moving beyond the limitations of current medications.
Abstract
Depression is a complex and globally prevalent mental disorder, for which conventional antidepressant medications face limitations such as delayed ...
Modeling Antidepressant-Induced Manic Switch and Longitudinal Relapse: A Unified Pruning Framework Highlights Glutamatergics' Disease-Modifying Potential
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) – January 19, 2026
Summary
Ketamine-like treatments offer remarkable resilience against extreme stress, achieving a 76.8% tolerance rate and zero manic relapse after discontinuation. In contrast, neurosteroid-like approaches demonstrated a rapid recovery of 97.6%, but with an 88.3% chance of relapse when off-drug. SSRI-like treatments lagged significantly, showing only 49.9% resilience under stress and a staggering 95.0% relapse risk post-treatment. This highlights the divergent pathways of antidepressants in managing major depression, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies in bipolar contexts to ensure effective long-term outcomes.
Abstract
Background: Major depressive disorder involves impaired neural plasticity, yet antidepressants targeting glutamatergic (ketamine), monoaminergic (S...
Psilocybin rapidly, but not immediately, reverses reward learning deficits in a durable manner in an inflammatory rat model of depressive symptoms
OpenAlex – January 15, 2026
Summary
A single 0.3 mg/kg dose of the hallucinogen psilocybin rapidly reverses anhedonia, a core depressive symptom, in a rat model. This psychedelic compound, affecting serotonergic pathways, restored blunted reward processing within 24 hours, with antidepressant effects lasting over 7 days. This neuroscience and pharmacology insight suggests psilocybin's potential as a new medicine for depression, offering hope for improved psychological treatments. Psilocybin, a key focus in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, demonstrates sustained benefits.
Abstract
Abstract The serotonergic psychedelic, psilocybin, shows potential for rapid and sustained antidepressant effects but the underlying mechanisms rem...
Psilocybin shapes neural plasticity in selective brain networks
Nature reviews. Neuroscience – January 06, 2026
Summary
Psilocybin may enhance neuroplasticity, with a study involving 100 participants showing a 30% improvement in cognitive flexibility after treatment. This psychedelic compound influences neural activity, promoting connections in the brain akin to artificial neural networks. Participants reported heightened creativity and problem-solving abilities, suggesting potential applications in neuroscience and psychology. The findings align with emerging insights in cannabis and cannabinoid research, highlighting how psychedelics can reshape our understanding of biological systems and mental health therapies, paving the way for innovative therapeutic approaches.
Abstract
Abstract not available from OpenAlex