Psychedelic neuroplasticity of cortical neurons lacking 5-HT2A receptors
Molecular Psychiatry March 1, 2026 Tyler G. Ekins, Chloe Rybicki-Kler, Tao Deng et al. 9 citations
Classic psychedelics can strengthen connections in the retrosplenial cortex, a brain region important for memory and spatial orientation that is impaired in Alzheimer's disease, even though its neurons lack the serotonin 2A receptors thought necessary for such effects. Using a new genetic tool in mice, the research shows that this strengthening depends on presynaptic serotonin 2A receptors on incoming nerve fibers from the anterior thalamus, not on the postsynaptic receptors of the retrosplenial cortex itself. The finding suggests psychedelics may have broader therapeutic potential than currently recognized, possibly aiding conditions like Alzheimer's disease and post-traumatic stress disorder by boosting retrosplenial circuit function.