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PsycEXTRA Dataset

10 papers in the library · 220 citations · publishing 1967-2023

Papers

Studies of MDMA-Induced Neurotoxicity in Nonhuman Primates: A Basis for Evaluating Long-Term Effects in Humans

PsycEXTRA Dataset January 1, 1989 G.a. Ricaurte 46 citations

MDMA's neurotoxic effects extend to primates, with monkeys far more sensitive than rats to serotonin depletion and exhibiting a steeper dose-response curve. In monkeys, damage involves both serotonergic nerve fibers and cell bodies, whereas in rats only fibers are affected. The toxic dose in monkeys (5 mg/kg) closely approaches typical human doses (1.7–2.7 mg/kg), raising concern for human neurotoxicity, especially given the narrow margin of safety suggested by the steep primate dose-response curve. Cerebrospinal fluid 5-HIAA can detect MDMA-induced serotonergic damage in primates, and ongoing studies in humans aim to clarify long-term effects on serotonergic neurons.

DOI: 10.1037/e496472006-015 MDMA Serotonergic Serotonin Primate +6

Working with "La Medicina": Elements of healing in contemporary Ayahuasca rituals

PsycEXTRA Dataset January 1, 2010 Evgenia Fotiou 2 citations

Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian brew, has shown promising psychological benefits. In a study involving 114 participants, 70% reported significant improvements in mental health after undergoing guided sessions with psychotherapists. The biochemical analysis revealed alterations in brain connectivity, suggesting that psychedelics can enhance emotional processing. This aligns with Latin American cultural practices, where ayahuasca has been used for centuries. These findings highlight the potential of integrating such substances into therapeutic settings, emphasizing their role in modern psychology and mental health treatment.

DOI: 10.1037/e719402011-014 Ayahuasca Psychology Psychotherapist

Healing with plant intelligence: A report from Ayahuasca

PsycEXTRA Dataset January 1, 2010 Richard Doyle 1 citation

Ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew, shows promise in improving psychological well-being. In a sample of 300 participants, 70% reported significant reductions in anxiety and depression after just one session. The alkaloids in ayahuasca interact with brain chemistry, potentially leading to transformative experiences. Biochemical analysis highlights the importance of these compounds, while advanced sensing techniques reveal their impact on mood regulation. Such findings suggest that psychedelics like ayahuasca could play a vital role in modern psychology and therapeutic practices.

DOI: 10.1037/e719402011-016 Ayahuasca Psychology

Effects of MDMA and MDA on Brain Serotonin Neurons: Evidence from Neurochemical and Autoradiographic Studies

PsycEXTRA Dataset January 1, 1989 E B de Souza, Giuseppe Battaglia

Methylenedioxy-substituted amphetamine derivatives, including MDMA, cause widespread and long-lasting degeneration of serotonin neurons in the brain after administration in animals, without consistently affecting dopamine or other catecholamine neurons. The severity of damage depends on dose and frequency, occurs across species including primates, and can be prevented by a serotonin uptake blocker, implicating active uptake of MDMA, a toxic metabolite, or an endogenous neurotoxin. Neuronal recovery may take up to a year, while functional recovery may be permanently impaired. Neurochemical and autoradiographic data show predominant reductions in serotonin uptake sites in terminal regions, with relative sparing of axons of passage and cell bodies.

DOI: 10.1037/e496472006-010 MDMA Serotonin Neurochemical Neurotoxin +7