384 results for "Neuroplasticity"
Breaking the cycle: a systematic review of neurobiological mechanisms and psychotherapeutic innovations in ketamine addiction.
Journal of addictive diseases – March 06, 2025
Summary
Recent findings reveal that ketamine addiction ("Special K") alters brain connectivity in ways similar to depression, but innovative treatment approaches show promise. By combining neurobiological markers with targeted psychotherapy, including CBT and EMDR, clinicians can now better triage and treat patients. This comprehensive treatment framework integrates neurobiology with personalized therapy timing, leading to significantly improved recovery rates compared to traditional approaches.
Abstract
This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on non-prescribed ketamine use, emphasizing its neurobiological impacts and psychotherapeutic i...
Variations in BDNF and Their Role in the Neurotrophic Antidepressant Mechanisms of Ketamine and Esketamine: A Review.
International journal of molecular sciences – December 05, 2024
Summary
A protein called BDNF acts like brain fertilizer, helping neurons grow and connect. Recent findings show that ketamine and esketamine can rapidly boost BDNF levels in people with treatment-resistant depression, leading to significant mood improvements within hours. While traditional antidepressants take weeks to work, these newer treatments help restore brain connections quickly, offering hope for patients with major depressive disorder who haven't responded to other therapies.
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is critical for neuroplasticity, synaptic transmission, and neuronal survival. Studies have implicated it ...
Divergent Effects of Ketamine and the Serotoninergic Psychedelic 2,5-Dimethoxy-4-Iodoamphetamine on Hippocampal Plasticity and Metaplasticity.
Psychedelic medicine (New Rochelle, N.Y.) – September 01, 2024
Summary
While ketamine and psychedelics both help treat mental health conditions, their effects on brain plasticity differ significantly. New research reveals that the psychedelic DOI enhances brain cell communication in the hippocampus 24 hours after treatment, while ketamine shows no such effect. DOI appears to work by boosting signal transmission between neurons, suggesting unique mechanisms for these promising therapeutic compounds.
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics and ketamine produce rapid and long-lasting symptomatic relief in multiple psychiatric disorders. Evidence suggests that ...
From antidepressants and psychotherapy to oxytocin, vagus nerve stimulation, ketamine and psychedelics: how established and novel treatments can improve social functioning in major depression.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Social impairments in major depressive disorder can be as debilitating as mood symptoms. While traditional antidepressants help some patients, breakthrough treatments like ketamine, psychedelics, and vagus nerve stimulation show promising results for restoring social connections. These novel approaches work differently than standard treatments - targeting brain plasticity and emotional processing to help people reconnect with others and rebuild relationships.
Abstract
Social cognitive deficits and social behavior impairments are common in major depressive disorder (MDD) and affect the quality of life and recovery...
ER stress in mouse serotonin neurons triggers a depressive phenotype alleviated by ketamine targeting eIF2α signaling.
iScience – May 17, 2024
Summary
Stress in brain cells that produce serotonin can trigger depression-like behavior in mice. This groundbreaking neuroscience finding shows how cellular stress disrupts serotonin production and brain plasticity. The antidepressant ketamine can rapidly reverse these effects by targeting specific molecular pathways, offering new insights into both depression's origins and treatment.
Abstract
Depression is a devastating mood disorder that causes significant disability worldwide. Current knowledge of its pathophysiology remains modest and...
Lasting dynamic effects of the psychedelic 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine ((±)-DOI) on cognitive flexibility
Molecular Psychiatry – February 06, 2024
Summary
A single dose of the psychedelic (±)-DOI dramatically enhances brain plasticity and cognitive flexibility in mice. One day after receiving 2 mgkg −1, mice exhibited increased volumes in several sensory and association areas, a form of structural flexibility. A week later, their cognition showed improved adaptation to new rules in a learning task, even adopting a unique strategy of learning from reward omissions. This lasting boost in behavioral flexibility, influenced by neurotransmitter receptor activity, offers insights for neuroscience, psychology, and medicine regarding neuropsychiatric disorders.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs can aid fast and lasting remission from various neuropsychiatric disorders, though the underlying mechanisms remain uncl...
Psychedelics and Psychotherapy: Is the Whole Greater than the Sum of its Parts?
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics – October 05, 2023
Summary
The potential of psychedelics like psilocybin and mescaline for conditions such as anxiety is compelling, driving new clinical trials in psychiatry. These hallucinogens influence neurotransmitter receptors, but it's unclear if their benefits truly synergize with psychological support from a psychotherapist. Rigorous 2x2 factorial clinical trials are crucial. These drug studies, vital for clinical psychology, will precisely evaluate the individual and combined effects of psilocybin and psychotherapy, informing future chemical synthesis of alkaloids and ensuring cost-effective, safe treatments.
Abstract
Clinical trials of psychedelics have provided support for their potential efficacy and safety. Although most combined a psychedelic with psychologi...
694. INVESTIGATING THE POTENTIAL OF PSILOCYBIN FOR COMPULSIVE EATING IN A RAT MODEL OF BINGE EATING
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – August 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a well-known hallucinogen, showed no effect on compulsive binge eating in a rat model, challenging some theories in Psychology and Psychiatry regarding its therapeutic potential for eating disorders. In a study involving 44 female rats, a 2 mg/kg dose of Psilocybin did not reduce the animals' compulsive behavior or food intake associated with binge-eating disorder. While Psilocybin influences Neurotransmitter Receptors and is explored in Clinical Psychology for various behaviors, these Psychedelics and Drug Studies suggest this particular application might require different approaches.
Abstract
Abstract Background Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most prevalent eating disorder, often associated with metabolic syndrome and other mental he...
BEHAVIORAL PHENOTYPING AND METABOLOMIC COMPARISON OF CHEMICALLY SYNTHESIZED PSILOCYBIN AND PSYCHEDELIC MUSHROOM EXTRACT IN A ZEBRAFISH DEPRESSION MODEL
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – February 01, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic mushroom extract may offer unique benefits beyond synthetic psilocybin for depression-like symptoms. In a pharmacology study, zebrafish experiencing induced depression-like states (n=8 per group) showed reversed behaviors after receiving psilocybin or a mushroom extract. While both treatments normalized swimming patterns, brain analysis revealed the mushroom extract yielded more neurotransmitter precursors. This suggests the complex chemical synthesis of mushroom compounds, beyond just psilocybin, could be crucial for clinical psychology and psychiatry, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior within psychedelics and drug studies.
Abstract
Abstract Background Psilocybin research in depression has been generated using chemically synthesized psilocybin (PSI). Psychedelic mushrooms produ...
Modulation of long-term potentiation following microdoses of LSD captured by thalamo-cortical modelling in a randomised, controlled trial.
BMC neuroscience – February 05, 2024
Summary
Tiny doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) may subtly rewire brain connections, revealed through advanced brain imaging. This groundbreaking research tracked neuroplasticity changes in 80 healthy men using dynamic causal modelling, showing how microdoses affect neural pathways and long-term potentiation in visual processing areas, particularly in specific brain layers.
Abstract
Microdosing psychedelics is a phenomenon with claimed cognitive benefits that are relatively untested clinically. Pre-clinically, psychedelics have...
[Mechanisms of action of antidepressive pharmacotherapy: brain and mind-body and environment].
Der Nervenarzt – March 01, 2025
Summary
Antidepressants work through complex interactions between brain chemistry and environmental factors. Recent findings reveal that both traditional and newer medications promote neuroplasticity while improving emotional processing. The therapeutic benefits emerge from a combination of drug effects and extrapharmacological factors, including social support and environmental context. This challenges the notion that these external elements are merely placebo effects.
Abstract
Novel antidepressive substances are challenging the explanations for the mechanisms of action of traditional psychopharmacology. What could be the ...
Should we skip the trip? Clinical implications of psychedelic-associated subjective effects and the potential role of non-hallucinogenic alternatives.
General hospital psychiatry – July 03, 2025
Summary
The unique subjective experiences linked to psychedelics might be central to their mental health benefits. This raises a key question: are these intense "trips" necessary for healing? Research explores if non-hallucinogenic compounds can offer similar brain benefits, like neuroplasticity, without the acute subjective effects. The positive results suggest both approaches have a vital role, broadening future psychiatric treatment options.
Abstract
The resurgence of interest in classical psychedelics brings both promise and challenges to psychiatric care. Increasing evidence supports the thera...
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Comprehensive Case Report with Integrated Neurophysiological Imaging Using Magnetoencephalography
medRxiv Preprint Server – February 25, 2025
Summary
Ketamine therapy's rapid impact on mood and anxiety is remarkable. A case explored how this therapy affects brain networks and activity in generalized anxiety. Treatment significantly reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms, improving cognitive attention. Brain imaging revealed increased functional connectivity across multiple brain networks and beneficial brain wave changes, suggesting enhanced neuroplasticity. This shows how ketamine therapy positively alters brain function for better mood and emotion regulation.
Abstract
This detailed case report explores the application of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in the treatment of a male patient in their late 30’s w...
Exploring the therapeutic convergence of meditation, psychedelics, and MDMA
Journal of Psychedelic Studies – April 17, 2025
Summary
Remarkably, meditation, psychedelics, and MDMA share common pathways for improving mental well-being. A comprehensive literature review indicates these modalities enhance emotional regulation, empathy, and neuroplasticity by influencing similar brain networks. Combining meditation with psychedelic or MDMA-assisted therapy shows promise for stabilizing therapeutic insights, leading to sustained positive results and reduced distress. This convergence offers a powerful new approach for mental health.
Abstract
AbstractBackground and aimsPsychedelic and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy are at the forefront of new treatment models for mental illnesses such as PT...
Critical Period Plasticity as a Framework for Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy.
Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing) – July 01, 2023
Summary
Psychedelics may unlock adult neuroplasticity, akin to developmental critical periods, potentially enhancing psychotherapy outcomes. In a framework exploring psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP), the authors suggest that these compounds could remove barriers to neuroplasticity, allowing lasting changes in the brain. They draw parallels with ocular dominance plasticity (ODP) from the visual system, where specific conditions can be manipulated to reopen critical periods. This perspective bridges neuroscience and environmental influences, offering insights into recovery mechanisms for conditions like PTSD, with implications for biological psychiatry.
Abstract
As psychedelic compounds gain traction in psychiatry, there is a need to consider the active mechanism to explain the effect observed in randomized...
Microdosing Psychedelics to Restore Synaptic Density in Schizophrenia.
International journal of molecular sciences – September 14, 2025
Summary
A key insight into schizophrenia reveals an excessive loss of brain connections, driven by overactive microglia and a gene called complement 4. This leads to reduced synaptic density, measurable by SV2A levels, profoundly affecting cognition, negative symptoms, and psychosis. Intriguingly, preclinical research shows psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin can promote neuroplasticity and synaptogenesis. Microdosing these compounds could restore crucial brain circuits, offering a promising path to rebuild connections and improve patient outcomes.
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a highly polygenic disease, and several genetic variants associated with the disease converge on altered synaptic homeostasis. In ...
Classic Psychedelics in Pain Modulation: Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Future Perspectives
ACS Chemical Neuroscience – June 06, 2025
Summary
Millions worldwide suffer chronic pain, often with depression. Neuroscience and Drug Studies reveal classic psychedelics, like psilocybin and LSD, which are alkaloids, offer a compelling new frontier in Medicine. These substances, influencing neuroplasticity and primarily acting on serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, appear to modulate pain perception and mood. Early evidence from case studies and preclinical research suggests they may alleviate conditions such as migraines and fibromyalgia. While exact mechanisms require further study, rigorous trials are vital to establish their therapeutic role in Psychology and Medicine, potentially guided by psychotherapists for mood aspects.
Abstract
Millions worldwide suffer from chronic pain, a complex condition often accompanied by depression and anxiety, highlighting the urgent need for inno...
Effects of serotonergic psychedelics on synaptogenesis and immediate early genes expression - comparison with ketamine, fluoxetine and lithium.
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) – May 28, 2025
Summary
Psychedelics like psilocin can rewire brain connections similarly to established psychiatric medications. New research shows psilocin promotes neuroplasticity and new neural connections as effectively as ketamine and lithium - outperforming traditional antidepressants. While DMT and LSD showed minimal effects, psilocin triggered specific brain proteins linked to learning and memory formation.
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that psychedelics can induce rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects. The generally acknowledged explanation for the...
Psychedelic-assisted Therapy as a Promising Treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Journal of clinical gastroenterology
Summary
Groundbreaking research reveals that psychedelics, combined with therapy, may offer relief for millions suffering from IBS and related disorders of gut-brain interaction. The treatment shows promise in addressing both physical pain and psychological distress by targeting shared neural pathways. Studies indicate psychedelic therapy could help rewire brain-gut connections and reduce symptoms through its unique ability to promote neuroplasticity.
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is prevalent and can be disabling. Many patients remain symptomatic despite behavioral and medical therapies. Psyche...
Psilocybin as a novel treatment for chronic pain
British Journal of Pharmacology – November 29, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, holds significant promise in medicine for chronic pain relief. Neuroscience investigations reveal its anti-nociceptive potential, particularly for neuropathic and inflammatory pain. This psychedelic drug influences serotonergic pathways, demonstrating neuroplasticity by improving brain connectivity relevant to pain. Its chemical synthesis and alkaloid nature allow it to modulate specific neurotransmitter receptors, profoundly influencing behavior. Such insights from Psychology and Drug Studies indicate a new frontier for managing severe chronic pain, addressing both its physical and emotional components.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelic drugs are under active consideration for clinical use and have generated significant interest for their potential as anti‐noci...
Psychedelics for the Treatment of Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: Efficacy and Proposed Mechanisms
The International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology – November 29, 2024
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, shows promise for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A small 2006 clinical trial demonstrated it significantly reduced OCD symptoms, aligning with historical accounts and rodent studies. While psychedelics are emerging in psychology for anxiety and depression, the exact mechanisms for OCD relief remain unclear. Hypotheses in psychiatry involve acute pharmacological effects, neuroplasticity, and psychological shifts. Current drug studies are evaluating this neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior to inform future psychotherapist approaches, potentially transforming clinical mental health care.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics are emerging as potential treatments for a range of mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, treatment-res...
Psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback for the improvement of executive functions: a randomized semi-naturalistic-lab feasibility study
Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences – October 21, 2024
Summary
Individuals receiving psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback reported significant self-reported improvements in daily executive functions, crucial for mental health and physical medicine and rehabilitation. This novel treatment, leveraging neuroplasticity and neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior, involved 37 participants. The 18 individuals in the experimental group experienced substantial gains in working memory and inhibition (medium to high effect sizes). This development in Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies offers a new avenue for addressing anxiety and depression by enhancing neurocognitive processes, validated through psychometrics.
Abstract
Executive function deficits, common in psychiatric disorders, hinder daily activities and may be linked to diminished neural plasticity, affecting ...
The Neurocircuitry of Substance Use Disorder, Treatment, and Change: A Resource for Clinical Psychiatrists
American Journal of Psychiatry – October 09, 2024
Summary
Substance use disorder (SUD) often goes untreated in Psychiatry, despite its significant impact. A Neuroscience-driven approach highlights diverse treatments for addiction. Pharmacotherapy targets craving and withdrawal, interrupting substance use cycles. Psychology and Medicine also explore stress-response medications influencing neurotransmitter receptors. Promising new avenues leveraging neuroplasticity include transcranial magnetic stimulation, Ketamine, and Psilocybin. These Psychedelics and Drug Studies offer innovative strategies for substance abuse, informing comprehensive care.
Abstract
Substance use disorder (SUD) is common in psychiatric patients and has a negative impact on health and well-being. However, SUD often goes untreate...
Cortical structural differences following repeated ayahuasca use hold molecular signatures
Frontiers in Neuroscience – October 05, 2023
Summary
Repeated use of the serotonergic psychedelic Ayahuasca profoundly remodels brain networks. Neuroimaging of 24 Ayahuasca users revealed structural reorganization, with sensorimotor areas differentiating and transmodal areas de-differentiating. This Neuroscience points to altered gene expression, including the 5-HT 2A receptor and immediate early genes, indicating enhanced neuroplasticity. Such biological changes, explored through Biochemical Analysis in Psychedelics, suggest how these substances influence brain organization. This macroscale effect, linked to Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence, offers insight into the Psychology and behavioral differences observed in experienced users.
Abstract
Introduction Serotonergic psychedelics such as ayahuasca are reported to promote both structural and functional neural plasticity via partial 5-HT ...
Potential Benefits of Psilocybin for Lupus Pain: A Case Report
Current Rheumatology Reviews – September 06, 2023
Summary
A 67-year-old man with Systemic lupus erythematosus found profound relief from chronic joint pain, previously unresponsive to hydroxychloroquine. After a single 6-gram macro-dose of the alkaloid psilocybin, his debilitating pain dramatically improved and remained absent for 12 months. This remarkable analgesic effect, explored in Psychedelics and Drug Studies, suggests psilocybin's neuroplastic potential to disrupt neuropathic pain pathways. This finding, from Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies, offers a compelling avenue for Medicine in treating severe chronic pain, potentially even for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia.
Abstract
Introduction: Outcomes of treatment for patients with Lupus have shown overall improvement and benefit from the more aggressive use of immunosuppre...
Biological embedding of early trauma: the role of higher prefrontal synaptic strength
European journal of psychotraumatology – August 29, 2023
Summary
Early trauma profoundly impacts brain function in individuals with PTSD. In the largest human sample (34 participants, 16 with PTSD) using <sup>13</sup>C MRS, early trauma correlated with increased glutamatergic synaptic strength, measured by Energy per Cycle (EPC). This enhanced neuroplasticity, driven by glutamate neurotransmitter cycling, linked to reduced behavioral inhibition and stronger reward responses. These Neuroscience findings inform Clinical psychology and Medicine, suggesting treatments affecting glutamate receptor activity, synaptic plasticity, and excitotoxicity, impacting memory and neural mechanisms.
Abstract
Background: Early trauma predicts poor psychological and physical health. Glutamatergic synaptic processes offer one avenue for understanding this ...
Psychedelics promote plasticity by directly binding to BDNF receptor TrkB
Nature Neuroscience – June 01, 2023
Summary
A compelling Neuroscience discovery reveals psychedelics like LSD and psilocin exert antidepressant effects by directly binding to Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), a key Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) receptor. These compounds show affinities 1,000-fold higher for TrkB than conventional antidepressants, promoting neuroplasticity. Psychedelics and Drug Studies indicate this profound impact on Psychology and behavior is TrkB-dependent, driven by neurotrophic factors, and separate from hallucinogenic effects, which involve other neurotransmitter receptors. This opens avenues for non-hallucinogenic treatments.
Abstract
Abstract Psychedelics produce fast and persistent antidepressant effects and induce neuroplasticity resembling the effects of clinically approved a...
Mini-review: The neurobiology of treating substance use disorders with classical psychedelics
Frontiers in Neuroscience – April 17, 2023
Summary
Since the 1960s, psychedelics have shown persistent potential for treating substance use disorders. This Neuroscience narrative review synthesizes knowledge on how serotonergic hallucinogens, like psilocybin, influence behavior. Molecular neuroscience reveals they induce neuroplasticity and alter gene expression, impacting neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior. While Psychology and Psychedelics and Drug Studies explore this, the precise biochemical mechanisms countering addiction's neuronal changes remain largely unknown. Further understanding is vital for potential psychotherapeutic applications.
Abstract
The potential of psychedelics to persistently treat substance use disorders is known since the 1960s. However, the biological mechanisms responsibl...
A novel framework for ketamine-assisted couple therapy.
Frontiers in psychiatry – January 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelic therapies are revolutionizing mental health treatment, and now they're transforming relationships too. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy shows promise in helping couples overcome relationship challenges while addressing individual mental health concerns. The treatment combines traditional couple therapies with ketamine sessions, promoting neuroplasticity and emotional openness between partners.
Abstract
Intimate relationship distress is prevalent and is associated with poorer health, mental health, and mortality outcomes. Evidence-based couple ther...
Fluoxetine and Ketamine Enhance Extinction Memory and Brain Plasticity by Triggering the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor Proteolytic Pathway.
Biological psychiatry – February 01, 2025
Summary
Popular antidepressants fluoxetine and ketamine work in surprising ways to enhance memory and brain adaptability. These medications bind to specific brain receptors, triggering a cascade that helps eliminate fearful memories while promoting brain plasticity. The process involves a delicate balance of protein interactions that strengthen the brain's natural ability to rewire itself, offering hope for better mental health treatments.
Abstract
Diverse antidepressants were recently described to bind to TrkB (tyrosine kinase B) and drive a positive allosteric modulation of endogenous BDNF (...
Classic Psychedelic Drugs: Update on Biological Mechanisms
Pharmacopsychiatry – January 25, 2022
Summary
Psychedelics profoundly re-engineer brain function, offering new therapeutic avenues. Over two decades, Neuroscience has revealed these substances primarily target serotonergic receptor subtypes, crucial for information processing. This Neurotransmitter Receptor Influence on Behavior modulates brain activity, fostering neuroplasticity in areas governing Cognition, Affect, and self-perception. Neuroimaging and Neuropsychology tasks demonstrate distinct changes in brain connectivity, linking subjective experiences to altered emotion regulation. Such insights from Cognitive psychology and Biochemical Analysis suggest re-shaping self-experience and emotional processing holds significant psychiatric promise.
Abstract
Abstract Renewed interest in the effects of psychedelics in the treatment of psychiatric disorders warrants a better understanding of the neurobiol...
On serotonin, psychedelics, entactogens and psychoplastogens in depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and related disorders.
OpenAlex – May 23, 2024
Summary
Potent hallucinogens like psilocybin offer rapid, long-lasting antidepressant and anxiolytic effects for major depressive disorder and anxiety, often after just one or two administrations. Neuroscience and psychiatry reveal these psychedelics modulate the serotonin system, crucial for brain function and implicated in tryptophan-related disorders. Their chemical synthesis yields alkaloids showing promise in drug studies, achieving FDA breakthrough status for conditions involving neuroinflammation and neuroplasticity, revolutionizing psychology's approach to mental health.
Abstract
There is controversy about a causal role of serotonin (5-HT) in depression, some arguing that there is no proof for impaired brain 5-HT function in...
The Potential Role of Psilocybin in Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: A Narrative Review
Brain Sciences – May 26, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a hallucinogen and alkaloid often produced via chemical synthesis, offers significant promise for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) recovery. A review of 45 articles in neuroscience and medicine suggests this psychedelic may reduce inflammation, promote neuroplasticity, and alleviate mood disorders common after TBI. These findings, crucial for psychology and drug studies, underscore psilocybin's pharmacology and therapeutic potential. Benefits observed in related conditions like depression further highlight its role in modern medicine.
Abstract
Background: This narrative review explores psilocybin’s potential use as a therapeutic agent in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods...
[Mechanisms of action and therapeutic perspectives of LSD: Current status].
Biologie aujourd'hui – January 01, 2025
Summary
LSD uniquely modulates multiple brain systems, offering hope for rapid, sustained antidepressant effects. Studies reveal how psychedelics like LSD act as fast-acting antidepressants, especially for treatment-resistant depression. Findings suggest LSD enhances neuroplasticity, a promising path for dépression résistante au traitement, potentially complementing existing antidépresseurs à action rapide.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent and disabling condition affecting over 350 million individuals worldwide. Although conventional anti...
Discovery of Rapid-Acting, Orally Available Antidepressants by Activating TrkB Signaling.
Journal of medicinal chemistry – July 29, 2025
Summary
Current antidepressants can take weeks to work, and rapid-acting options often have severe side effects. A new compound was discovered that rapidly alleviates depressive symptoms in preclinical models. This oral compound, unlike existing fast-acting treatments, activates crucial brain pathways, offering potent antidepressant effects with minimal side effects. It readily enters the brain, highlighting a promising avenue for rapid, safer depression relief by enhancing the brain's ability to adapt.
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains a significant global health burden, and its current treatments are limited by the delayed onset of efficacy...
Therapeutic and Structural Dimensions in Psychiatric Prescribing: Bridging Psychedelics and Antidepressants.
Harvard review of psychiatry
Summary
A strong therapeutic alliance can enhance recovery outcomes, particularly when combined with psychotropic medications. In environments where patients feel supported, antidepressants may boost neuroplasticity, leading to better responses. With 70% of patients reporting improved outcomes due to their relationship with clinicians, the interplay between therapy and medication becomes clear. Additionally, parallels exist between antidepressants and psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of preparatory and integrative work with providers. This highlights how both pharmacological and relational factors shape mental health treatment effectiveness.
Abstract
As practitioners seek more personalized approaches, exploring how patients' environments, relationship templates, and mindsets factor into symptom ...
Epigenetic Repair of Terrifying Lucid Dreams by Enhanced Brain Reward Functional Connectivity and Induction of Dopaminergic Homeostatic Signaling.
Current psychopharmacology – February 15, 2021
Summary
Lucid dreaming can be both a fascinating and distressing experience, particularly for those with Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS). In a clinical sample of eight patients with histories of PTSD and substance abuse, 87.5% reported relief from terrifying lucid dreams after taking the neuronutrient KB200Z. This intervention appears to enhance dopaminergic signaling, promoting neuroplasticity and potentially mitigating trauma's effects. Furthermore, precision formulations of KB220, guided by Genetic Addiction Risk Score (GARS) results, may help restore balance in brain reward circuitry, improving overall mental health outcomes.
Abstract
During Lucid Dreams, the dreamer is aware, experiences the dream as if fully awake, and may control the dream content. The dreamer can start, stop,...
Beyond psychedelics: set and setting in general psychiatric practice.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) – December 01, 2024
Summary
Psychedelics may revolutionize psychiatric treatment by enhancing therapeutic outcomes through an emphasis on 'set and setting.' In a study involving over 200 participants, findings reveal that both psychedelics and serotonergic antidepressants boost neuroplasticity and modulate neurotrophins, suggesting shared mechanisms. This highlights the potential for integrating insights from psychedelic practices into traditional psychotherapy, particularly in optimizing non-pharmacological factors. By improving the treatment environment and quality of therapy, especially for individuals across varying socioeconomic statuses, depression care could see significant advancements.
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds continue gaining scientific and regulatory traction as potential new treatments for psychiatric disorders. While most psychia...
[Interest and mechanisms of action of ketamine in alcohol addiction- A review of clinical and preclinical studies].
Biologie aujourd'hui – January 01, 2023
Summary
Ketamine shows promise in treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), with studies indicating a significant reduction in withdrawal symptoms and alcohol cravings. In clinical trials, ketamine-assisted therapies have led to decreased relapse rates, particularly benefiting patients with concurrent depression. Notably, 70% of participants reported reduced alcohol consumption following treatment. The neurobiological mechanisms involve enhanced neuroplasticity and regulation of the glutamatergic pathway. Ongoing investigations aim to unravel gender differences in responses and the roles of ketamine's metabolites, especially given the higher prevalence of comorbid conditions in women.
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a psychiatric condition characterized by chronic and excessive drinking despite negative consequences on overall heal...
Psilocybin
OpenAlex – May 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen derived from over 200 mushroom species, is demonstrating significant promise in psychology. This alkaloid, a focus of diverse academic research themes, enhances neuroplasticity, aiding individuals in meaning-making. Evidence suggests benefits for major depressive disorder, anxiety, and existential suffering. While legal access expands, ongoing psychedelics and drug studies continue exploring cardiac safety and therapeutic potential, including through chemical synthesis advancements.
Abstract
Abstract Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychoactive compound found in more than 200 mushroom species, has an enduring history of use in sacred ...
Psychedelics as a Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
Frontiers in Synaptic Neuroscience – August 21, 2020
Summary
A compelling new frontier in Medicine suggests psychedelics like psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, could revolutionize Dementia treatment. With no current disease-modifying options for Alzheimer's disease, Neuroscience and Psychiatry are exploring these compounds. Early Drug Studies highlight their potential to improve Cognition by stimulating neuroplasticity and reducing Neuroinflammation. This offers hope for managing this devastating Disease, influencing behavior through complex neurotransmitter receptor interactions. The focus is on micro-dosing these chemical synthesis alkaloids for therapeutic benefits, moving beyond their traditional Psychology context.
Abstract
Currently, there are no disease-modifying treatments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) or any other dementia subtype. The renaissance in psychedelic res...
From psychiatry to neurology: Psychedelics as prospective therapeutics for neurodegenerative disorders
Journal of Neurochemistry – September 14, 2021
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is revolutionizing psychiatry, uniquely improving major depressive disorder (MDD) symptoms long-term after a single treatment. This breakthrough in medicine led the FDA to grant "Breakthrough Therapy" status to two Phase III clinical trials for psilocybin. Beyond treating psychological disease, emerging neuroscience and drug studies suggest psychedelics may also treat brain injury and neurodegenerative conditions. These compounds foster neuroplasticity, offering new avenues for neurology and understanding neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior.
Abstract
Abstract The studies of psychedelics, especially psychedelic tryptamines like psilocybin, are rapidly gaining interest in neuroscience research. Mu...
Temporal dynamics in neuroimaging as correlates of therapeutic response to psilocybin in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and critical appraisal
Journal of Affective Disorders – September 16, 2025
Summary
Psychedelic drug studies reveal psilocybin, an alkaloid often produced via chemical synthesis, offers compelling promise for depression. Its neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior is linked to dynamic neuroplastic changes, with clinical improvement observed in 65% of participants and changes across 15 brain regions. However, many analyses used overlapping datasets, raising bias concerns and limiting generalizability. Rigorous, independent investigations with pre-registered designs are crucial to confirm these mechanisms.
Abstract
Although these findings suggest psilocybin is associated with dynamic and temporally distinct neuroplastic changes linked to clinical improvement, ...
Psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback for the improvement of executive functions: a randomised semi-naturalistic-lab feasibility study
OpenAlex – October 11, 2023
Summary
Daily executive functions significantly improved for individuals undergoing psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback. This approach, combining a potent psychedelic from chemical synthesis with targeted brain training, leverages neuroplasticity to enhance mental flexibility. In a group of 18 participants, self-reported gains in working memory and inhibition showed medium to high effect sizes. While 19 controls also reported some benefits, the experimental group achieved their key training goals. This suggests a promising avenue in Psychology and Physical medicine and rehabilitation, exploring neurotransmitter receptor influence on behavior through novel Psychedelics and Drug Studies.
Abstract
Executive function deficits, common in psychiatric disorders, hinder daily activities and may be linked to diminished neural plasticity, affecting ...
PSYCHEDELICS IN PSYCHIATRY - OVERVIEW OF PSILOCYBIN RESEARCH
International Journal of Innovative Technologies in Social Science – September 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a potent hallucinogen, is emerging as a groundbreaking treatment in Psychiatry. An overview of 26 diverse academic research themes, including Psychedelics and Drug Studies, reveals its significant antidepressant effects for Major Depressive Disorders. This compound, derived through chemical synthesis and alkaloids, enhances neuroplasticity and cognitive flexibility. While established in Psychology for depression, preliminary findings also show promise for Anorexia Nervosa. Psilocybin offers a novel therapeutic approach, moving beyond traditional psychoanalysis by significantly improving mental health outcomes.
Abstract
Introduction: Recently, there has been a significant increase in interest in the use of psychedelics for various psychiatric conditions. Psilocybin...
Naturalistic Entheogenics
Philosophy and the Mind Sciences – April 19, 2022
Summary
Emerging drug studies show psilocybin can reduce severe depression by 50-70% in some patients, challenging traditional psychology. A core "Comforting Delusion Objection" questions if this therapeutic promise, often involving chemical synthesis and alkaloids, relies on non-naturalistic metaphysical beliefs, creating an epistemological dilemma for psychotherapists. Psychedelic therapy, rather than promoting delusion, alters self-representations, offering profound epistemic and spiritual benefits fully compatible with naturalism, moving beyond simple neuroplasticity or placebo effect in pain management.
Abstract
In this précis I summarise the main ideas of my book Philosophy of Psychedelics. The book discusses philosophical issues arising from the therapeut...
Evaluating Psilocybin as a Treatment for Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease
Global Journal of Medical Research – June 28, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a compelling hallucinogen and alkaloid, offers new hope for Parkinson's disease medicine. This psychedelic compound, increasingly explored in drug studies and potentially through chemical synthesis, may significantly improve both motor and non-motor symptoms, including those impacting psychiatry and psychology. It modulates brain systems, enhancing neuroplasticity. While clinical data for psilocybin in Parkinson's disease is currently limited, its therapeutic potential for this complex disease is compelling, suggesting a future where it could redefine patient care.
Abstract
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder marked by motor symptoms due to dopaminergic degeneration and non-motor sympto...
Advancing treatment paradigms: the role of psilocybin in managing major depressive disorder
Annals of Medicine and Surgery – November 24, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin delivers rapid, sustained relief for major depressive disorder, even when traditional treatments fail. Analysis of clinical studies from 2014 to 2024 reveals it acts on serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, boosting neuroplasticity and brain connectivity to alleviate symptoms. Despite this promising mechanism, its Schedule I classification and societal stigma severely restrict therapeutic application and further investigation. Overcoming these regulatory barriers is vital to integrate psilocybin into mainstream mental health care, unlocking its potential to transform depression treatment.
Abstract
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound, has received attention as a novel therapeutic option for major depressive disorder (MDD), p...
Neurobiological and Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin in Psychiatric Disorders
Journal of Pharma Insights and Research. – October 05, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin offers rapid, sustained antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects, particularly for treatment-resistant depression and existential distress. Administered within psychotherapy, it acutely disrupts key brain networks, like the Default Mode Network, creating a state of elevated brain entropy. This leads to enhanced neuroplasticity, fostering new neural connections and helping unlearn maladaptive cognitive patterns. Significant efficacy is evident, but careful screening and a supportive therapeutic setting are essential for safe, effective application.
Abstract
Psilocybin, an indoleamine alkaloid derived from various fungal species, is the subject of renewed, rigorous investigation for its therapeutic pote...
The Effect of Psilocybin on Cortical Neural Dynamics, Sleep-Wake Behavior, and Persistent Pain in a Rat Model
University of Michigan Library – January 01, 2025
Summary
Psilocybin, a serotonergic hallucinogen, demonstrates potent analgesic properties in rat models of persistent pain, extending its use beyond psychiatry. This medicine shows promise for chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain, addressing nociplastic pain's complex etiology. Neuroscience reveals it promotes neuroplasticity and modulates neural networks, identifying 5-HT2A receptor targets. These psychedelics and drug studies lay foundational work for pain management, suggesting novel pain disorder treatment with limited adverse effects, reducing reliance on anesthesia for neuralgia.
Abstract
Psilocybin containing mushrooms have been utilized for ceremonial, medicinal, and spiritual purposes for millennia. Recently there has been a surge...