Peripheral signals, central questions: Examining the relationship between psychedelics and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
Psychedelics April 10, 2024 Vivek Seelamneni 1 citation
Psychedelics may increase peripheral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein involved in neural plasticity. A meta-analysis by Shafiee et al. found that psychedelics elevate BDNF levels, suggesting a possible mechanism for their therapeutic effects in psychiatric disorders. This commentary discusses two approaches to understanding psychedelic mechanisms: identifying novel pathways and examining effects on known neurobiological processes underlying psychiatric conditions. The findings support the idea that BDNF upregulation could contribute to the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, though further research is needed to clarify the relationship.