MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

The molecular mechanisms through which psilocybin prevents suicide: evidence from network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses

Summary

Researchers used computer-based analysis to understand how psilocybin, a compound found in certain mushrooms, might help prevent suicide. They identified four key proteins that psilocybin interacts with and found that it works through serotonin and calcium signaling pathways in the brain, which are known to be involved in depression and suicidal behavior. While these findings are promising, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans before psilocybin can be used clinically for suicide prevention.

Background

Suicide is a significant public health issue and a leading cause of death globally. While conventional antidepressants have limited efficacy in suicide prevention, previous research suggests psilocybin may have therapeutic potential. However, the precise molecular mechanisms through which psilocybin prevents suicide remain unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms through which psilocybin may contribute to suicide prevention using network pharmacology and molecular docking approaches. The goal was to identify key targets and signaling pathways involved in psilocybin’s anti-suicidal effects.

Results

Network analysis identified 46 potential targets, with 13 key targets selected for further study. Four core targets—HTR2A, HTR2C, HTR7, and PRKACA—were identified through overlapping analysis of serotonergic synapse and calcium signaling pathways. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinity between psilocybin and all four targets, with PRKACA showing the lowest binding energy (−7.5 kcal/mol).

Conclusion

The study suggests psilocybin may prevent suicide through multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms, primarily via the serotonergic synapse and calcium signaling pathways. However, these computational findings require validation through experimental and clinical research before clinical application.
  • Published in:Translational Psychiatry,
  • Study Type:Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Study,
  • Source: PMID: 40523911, DOI: 10.1038/s41398-025-03410-7
Scroll to Top