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Neuroprotective effects of psilocybin in a rat model of stroke

Summary

Scientists studied whether psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, could protect the brain from stroke damage in rats. They found that psilocybin reduced brain damage, improved movement and behavior recovery after stroke, and worked by increasing a protective brain chemical called BDNF. This research suggests psilocybin could become a new treatment for stroke patients, especially since stroke often leads to depression and anxiety, which psilocybin may also help treat.

Background

Psilocybin is a psychedelic 5HT2A receptor agonist found in magic mushrooms. Recent studies have shown that 5HT2A agonists improve behavioral outcomes and reduce brain infarction in stroke models. The neuroprotective mechanisms of psilocybin in stroke have not been previously investigated.

Objective

To determine the protective effects of psilocybin in cellular and animal models of stroke and to elucidate the underlying neuroprotective mechanisms involving BDNF signaling.

Results

Psilocybin reduced glutamate-mediated neuronal loss in culture and decreased brain infarction in stroke rats. Both pretreatment and early post-treatment with psilocybin improved locomotor behavior and neurological deficits. Psilocybin upregulated MAP2 and synaptophysin while downregulating IBA1, with protection mediated by BDNF signaling as confirmed by ANA12 antagonism.

Conclusion

Psilocybin exhibits neuroprotective effects against ischemic stroke through BDNF-dependent mechanisms, reducing brain infarction and improving functional recovery. These findings support psilocybin as a novel therapeutic agent for stroke treatment, with potential additional benefits for stroke-associated depression and anxiety.
  • Published in:BMC Neuroscience,
  • Study Type:Experimental Animal Study,
  • Source: PMID: 39379834; DOI: 10.1186/s12868-024-00903-x
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