The Missing Piece? A Case for Microglia's Prominent Role in the Therapeutic Action of Anesthetics, Ketamine, and Psychedelics.
Neurochemical research April 1, 2023 Jared VanderZwaag, Torin Halvorson, Kira Dolhan et al. 25 citations
Microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, are emerging as a key target for new psychiatric drugs. This review examines how psychedelics (psilocybin, LSD), ketamine, and propofol interact with microglia to produce therapeutic effects. The authors detail pathways including sigma-1 receptors, serotonin and GABA signaling, and tryptophan metabolism through which these agents modulate microglial activity and inflammation, likely contributing to their benefits in mood disorders and addiction. The paper also discusses future directions, including implications for aging, glial cell heterogeneity, and advanced research methods.