University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
4 papers in the library · publishing 2024
UNC Libraries June 12, 2024 Diberto J.f, Roth B.l
Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, may act as a fast-acting antidepressant with lasting effects. A study in Neuron by Shao et al. (2021) demonstrates that psilocybin rapidly promotes the growth of dendritic spines in cortical layer V pyramidal neurons. This finding suggests a possible cellular basis for psilocybin's therapeutic benefits in treating depression.
UNC Libraries June 12, 2024 D Mwende . Muthoni, Roth B.l
Psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin, DMT, and LSD show promise for treating neuropsychiatric diseases, with phase II trials indicating that one or two doses of psilocybin can produce significant clinical effects for depression and anxiety. This has spurred commercial interest, with nearly 60 companies exploring psychedelic treatments. While the 5-HT2A receptor is known to mediate behavioral effects, it remains unclear which aspects of its activity in the central nervous system drive therapeutic outcomes and whether these can be isolated using novel chemical probes. The article discusses controversies and consensus in this field and highlights how basic science may guide development of psychedelic-inspired medications that offer efficacy without hallucinogenic or rewarding effects.
UNC Libraries June 7, 2024 Kami Kim, T Che, Ouliana Panova et al.
Psychedelics such as LSD, psilocybin, and related compounds are used recreationally and are being investigated as treatments for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. Their therapeutic and hallucinogenic effects depend on activating the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor, but the molecular details were unclear. Using cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography, researchers determined the structures of the 5-HT2A receptor bound to a hallucinogen, LSD, and an inverse agonist. These structures reveal how the receptor interacts with Gαq protein and changes shape when activated. The findings may guide development of more selective drugs for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Carolina Digital Repository May 11, 2024 Roth B.l, Gumpper R.h
Psychedelic compounds are being investigated as potential treatments for several neuropsychiatric conditions, including depression, cluster headaches, migraines, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. This review describes the biological mechanisms underlying these therapeutic effects, focusing on the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor system, and discusses recent drug discovery efforts. It also highlights potential pitfalls in the widespread clinical use of psychedelics, emphasizing the need to understand both their pharmacology and risks.