Journal of Neurochemistry
October 20, 2012
Lucia Frau, Nicola Simola, Antonio Plumitallo et al.
46 citations
The S(+) enantiomer of MDMA, but not the R(−) enantiomer, activates microglia and astroglia in the mouse striatum, though less strongly than racemic MDMA. Combining both enantiomers produces no greater activation than S(+) alone. Only racemic MDMA slightly activates microglia in other brain regions. S(+) and racemic MDMA similarly increase motor activity and body temperature, while R(−) has no effect. Body temperature rise correlates with glial activation. The findings indicate additive rather than synergistic effects of the two enantiomers and highlight the need to study their separate contributions to MDMA's neuroinflammatory and neurotoxic effects.
Neural Regeneration Research
February 22, 2024
Marcello Serra, Nicola Simola, Alexia E Pollack et al.
19 citations
Recreational and therapeutic use of psychostimulants such as amphetamine, cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, methylphenidate, caffeine, and nicotine can cause brain dysfunction and neurotoxic effects. This review of research from 2018 to 2023 examines evidence from both experimental models and humans, highlighting that central toxicity from these substances poses serious health risks, especially as their use rises among young people and adults. Understanding the factors and mechanisms behind these noxious brain effects is crucial for grasping the acute and lasting harm that may occur in users.
The international journal of neuropsychopharmacology
May 1, 2024
Gessica Piras, Cristina Cadoni, Francesca Caria et al.
3 citations
The synthetic stimulant 2-Cl-4,5-MDMA, an NPS linked to severe intoxications, increased dopamine and serotonin levels in the nucleus accumbens shell and medial prefrontal cortex of rats in a dose-, brain area-, and age-dependent manner. In adult rats, dopamine rose more markedly in both brain areas, while adolescent rats showed a greater serotonin increase in the nucleus accumbens shell. The drug stimulated locomotion and stereotyped activity more in adolescents but did not trigger 50-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations, suggesting no positive affective properties. These findings indicate age-dependent neurochemical and behavioral effects, helping to assess health risks from human use.
Current neuropharmacology
January 9, 2026
Maria Antonietta De Luca, Cristina Miliano, Amanda Roxburgh et al.
1 citation
Tablets sold as MDMA frequently contain psychoactive adulterants that vary by region and year, potentially increasing central nervous system harm. A review of studies from 2020 to 2025 covering Continental Europe, the UK, the USA, and Australia found that co-administration of MDMA with common adulterants can exacerbate noxious neurological and psychiatric effects. The composition of tablets differs across these regions, and interactions between MDMA and adulterants may explain some adverse effects seen in users. Expanding drug checking and public health efforts is essential to inform users, first responders, and healthcare professionals about these risks.