Disease: substance use disorder

Developmental Neurotoxicity Screen of Psychedelics and Other Drugs of Abuse in Larval Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

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Researchers tested 13 mind-altering drugs on developing zebrafish to see if they cause birth defects or behavioral problems. They found that psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine were relatively safe for developing organisms, but traditional drugs of abuse like cocaine and methamphetamine caused significant behavioral changes without obvious physical defects. The study provides important safety information for these compounds, especially for pregnant or nursing individuals considering their use for therapeutic purposes.

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Mycelium Growth and Development of Psilocybe spp. Mother Cultures on Agar-Based Media

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This research examines how different growing media affect four types of psilocybin mushrooms. The study found that malt extract agar worked best for some mushroom types while potato-based media worked better for others. Commercial powdered potato media performed poorly, especially for one sensitive strain. These findings help optimize mushroom cultivation for therapeutic and commercial purposes.

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GluN2B-mediated regulation of silent synapses for receptor specification and addiction memory

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Researchers studied how a specific brain protein called GluN2B affects addiction memories from cocaine use. They found that removing this protein reduced the formation of ‘silent synapses’ – immature brain connections created by cocaine – and weakened drug-related memories. However, this also unexpectedly made mice more active, suggesting that GluN2B normally helps control both addiction memory and activity levels. The findings provide new insights into how addiction memories form and suggest potential ways to treat addiction.

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The Role of Acid-Sensing Ion Channel 1A (ASIC1A) in the Behavioral and Synaptic Effects of Oxycodone and Other Opioids

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This study examines how a specific type of brain channel called ASIC1A affects how the brain responds to opioid drugs like oxycodone and morphine. Researchers found that mice without this channel showed stronger attraction to opioid-paired locations and had unusual changes in brain connections related to opioid use. The findings suggest that targeting ASIC1A could potentially be a new way to treat opioid addiction by reducing the brain’s sensitivity to these drugs.

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Acute effects of psilocybin on attention and executive functioning in healthy volunteers: a systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis

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This comprehensive review examined how psilocybin affects thinking and attention. Researchers analyzed 13 studies and found that psilocybin slows down reaction times during tasks requiring focus and decision-making, though accuracy remains relatively stable. The effects increase with higher doses. Understanding these cognitive changes is important for both therapeutic applications and ensuring safe use of psilocybin in research and clinical settings.

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