iScience
February 21, 2026
Andrew D. Geoly, John P. Coetzee, Derrick Matthew Buchanan et al.
In a small study of 22 military veterans with traumatic brain injury, a single treatment with magnesium-ibogaine was associated with changes in brain structure one month later. Brain scans showed an average reduction in predicted brain age of 1.3 years, increased thickness in 11 cortical regions, and volume expansion in 8 subcortical regions. While the authors note that the imaging technique can also reflect nonstructural changes, the overall pattern of results is consistent with neuroplastic change.
Research Square
December 17, 2025
Camarin E. Rolle, Nolan Williams, Afik Faerman et al.
A single dose of magnesium-ibogaine produced large and lasting reductions in disability, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety symptoms over 12 months in male U.S. Special Operations Veterans with a history of traumatic brain injury. Of 30 treated participants, 25 completed the full year of follow-up. Effect sizes at 12 months were very large (Cohen's d ≥ 2.18). The estimated probability of sustained remission at one year was 84% for PTSD, 66% for depression, and 61% for anxiety. These results suggest ibogaine may offer durable clinical benefits for TBI-related psychiatric and functional problems, though randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the findings.
Cancer research and treatment
July 1, 2025
Hyejo Ryu, Si Nae You, Sohee Oh et al.
A mindfulness-based self-help program delivered via Netflix improved depression and adaptive coping strategies in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. In a nonrandomized controlled trial, 84 patients were assigned to either a control group or a group that watched episodes of "Headspace Guide to Meditation" and practiced guided meditation at least twice weekly for four weeks. At week 8, the meditation group showed significantly greater improvement in depression, cognitive avoidance, and positive attitude compared to the control group. Half of the meditation group adhered to the full protocol. The findings suggest that a self-help mindfulness program on Netflix can be a feasible and effective way to support mental health in cancer patients.