Single-dose DMT reverses anhedonia and cognitive deficits via restoration of neurogenesis in a stress-induced depression model
bioRxiv Preprint Server April 26, 2025 Rafael V. Lima Da Cruz, Rêmullo B. G. De Miranda Costa, Gabriel M. De Queiroz et al. 2 citations preprint
A single dose of the psychedelic DMT reversed depression-like behaviors and cognitive impairments in mice exposed to chronic stress, outperforming the standard antidepressant fluoxetine. When given during stress, DMT prevented anhedonia but not cognitive deficits. DMT remained effective even under anesthesia, suggesting its therapeutic action does not require the psychedelic experience. All DMT regimens increased the integration of adult-born granule cells in the brain and reduced abnormal cell integration. The findings position DMT as a promising rapid-acting antidepressant that works through structural brain repair.