Pharmacological regulation of adult brain neuroplasticity: Synergistic roles of neuropeptide signaling, psychedelics, and synaptic modulators.
Molecular and cellular neurosciences March 1, 2026 Mustafa M Shokr, Mohamed N Fawzy, Ahmed M Abdelaziz
The brain's ability to reorganize itself, known as neuroplasticity, is now understood to be more flexible and treatable in adults than previously believed. This review examines drugs that target key synaptic receptors (NMDA, AMPA, GABA), neuropeptide systems (BDNF, oxytocin, vasopressin), and psychedelic compounds (psilocybin, LSD, ketamine). Evidence shows that NMDA antagonists produce rapid antidepressant effects, classic psychedelics reorganize brain structure and function through 5-HT2A receptor activation, and neuropeptides support synaptic repair. The authors emphasize safety concerns, risks of harmful plasticity, and the need for controlled dosing and patient selection. Emerging non-hallucinogenic neuroplastogens and combination therapies may offer safer ways to enhance plasticity for treating neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.