Research Keyword: BDNF

Neuroprotective effects of psilocybin in a rat model of stroke

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.

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Discovering the Potential Mechanisms of Medicinal Mushrooms Antidepressant Activity: A Review

This review explores how medicinal mushrooms may help fight depression through several natural mechanisms. These mushrooms contain compounds that boost serotonin production, reduce brain inflammation, and promote healthy neural growth. The review also discusses psilocybin from magic mushrooms as a promising rapid-acting treatment for severe depression that doesn’t respond to conventional medications.

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The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study

This study examined whether Lion’s mane mushroom supplements could improve thinking speed and reduce stress in healthy young adults. Researchers found that a single dose improved how quickly people completed a mental challenge, and four weeks of daily supplements showed a trend toward reducing subjective stress. However, the study was small and found mixed results, including some negative effects on memory tasks, so more research with larger groups is needed to confirm these findings.

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New and emerging pharmacologic treatments for MDD

Major depressive disorder affects millions worldwide and current antidepressants often don’t work well or take weeks to be effective. Researchers have developed exciting new treatments that work through different brain mechanisms and show promise for rapid symptom relief. These include nasal spray ketamine (approved 2019), oral medications like zuranolone (approved 2023), and investigational treatments including psilocybin, which show benefits especially for treatment-resistant cases. While many show great promise, more research is needed on long-term safety and how to make them widely available.

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Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic review

Lion’s Mane mushroom shows promising benefits for brain health, potentially improving memory and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It may help prevent cancer by triggering cancer cell death and supports digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. While generally safe, some people experience mild side effects like stomach discomfort or headaches, making it an accessible supplement for overall wellness.

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Hericioic Acids A–G and Hericiofuranoic Acid; Neurotrophic Agents from Cultures of the European Mushroom Hericium flagellum

Researchers isolated eight new bioactive compounds from a rare European mushroom species called Hericium flagellum. These compounds showed promising ability to stimulate nerve cell growth and could potentially help treat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The study demonstrates that mushroom-derived natural products may offer new therapeutic approaches for conditions affecting millions of elderly people worldwide.

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Cerebral Hypoxia-Induced Molecular Alterations and Their Impact on the Physiology of Neurons and Dendritic Spines: A Comprehensive Review

This review explains how low oxygen levels in the brain damage nerve cells and their connection points (dendritic spines) through a cascade of molecular changes. The brain normally has protective mechanisms, but severe or prolonged hypoxia overwhelms these defenses, leading to memory loss and cognitive problems. Several molecular pathways and supporting cells called astrocytes and microglia can help protect neurons. Understanding these protective mechanisms may lead to new treatments for brain conditions caused by low oxygen, such as stroke.

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