Therapeutic Potential of Fungally Derived Psilocybin Extract in Morphine-Dependent Mice: A Research Protocol
Undergraduate Research in Natural and Clinical Science and Technology (URNCST) Journal June 10, 2024 Linda Nguyen, Sona Regonda, Adam Gaisinsky
Psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound from Psilocybe fungi, is a serotonin 2A receptor agonist that affects neural plasticity and cognition. The authors propose a study to test whether psilocybin reduces morphine consumption and withdrawal symptoms in morphine-dependent mice, comparing its effects to methadone. They hypothesize that psilocybin will decrease morphine intake in a dose-dependent manner and minimize withdrawal behaviors, potentially offering a cheaper, less dependence-forming alternative for treating opioid addiction. The study uses mouse models with intraperitoneal injection, and future research might explore oral administration.