Psilocybin and ketamine affect novel neuropeptides gene expression in the rat hypothalamus
Journal of Psychopharmacology April 17, 2025 Artur Pałasz, Marta Pukowiec, Katarzyna Bogus et al.
A single high dose of psilocybin (10 mg/kg) increased the gene expression of most noncanonical neuropeptides in the hypothalamus of male rats, while decreasing expression of neuromedin U. Psilocybin also raised expression of serotonin receptors 5-HT1A, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT2B, but not 5-HT2C. Ketamine had a more limited effect, increasing only NUCB2, GPR173, and POMC transcripts. These findings suggest psychedelics may alter neuropeptide signaling and serotonin transmission in the hypothalamus, contributing to understanding their brain actions.