The neurons that mediate a psychedelic’s long-term antidepressive effects

Psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, shows therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders. A specific brain circuit and receptor are required for its long-term effects on neural plasticity and depression-related behavior. The beneficial behavioral action of psilocybin depends on the activation of pyramidal-tract neurons in the frontal cortex.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psilocybin, a classic psychedelic, has therapeutic potential for psychiatric disorders. A specific brain circuit and receptor have now been found to be required for psilocybin’s long-term effects on neural plasticity and depression-related behaviour. The psychedelic psilocybin’s beneficial behavioural action depends on the activation of pyramidal-tract neurons in the frontal cortex.