Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Muscimol.

Muscimol is a psychoactive compound found in Amanita mushrooms, including the fly agaric, and is structurally similar to the neurotransmitter GABA. It acts as a potent agonist at GABAA receptors and has been used historically as an entheogen in Siberian shamanic cultures. Although not approved for clinical use, muscimol is a valuable research tool in neuroscience, with its radiolabeled form, 3H-muscimol, employed as a radioligand in GABA receptor studies. Recent research explores its potential for neuropathic pain relief. This review covers the history, chemistry, pharmacology, and overall importance of muscimol.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Muscimol (3) is a psychoactive isoxazole present in various Amanita mushrooms, along with ibotenic acid and muscarine. It is structurally related to GABA and acts as a GABAA agonist with great affinity. Muscimol use dates back to Siberian shamanic cultures as an entheogen, where it was ingested orally to exert psychoactive effects. Although not approved for clinical use, its potential and use as a research tool in neuroscience is of immense value, with 3H-muscimol being used as a radioligand in GABA receptor research. Since its discovery in the early 60s, many research groups have worked on the synthesis of the compound. Recent research suggests the potential use of muscimol in neuropathic pain relief and other potential uses are also being studied. In this review, we will cover the history, chemistry, pharmacology and overall importance of the compound.