Neurotransmitter systems

Psilocin, A Psychedelic Drug, Exerts Anticonvulsant Effects Against PTZ- and MES-Induced Seizures in Mice via 5-HT1A and CB1 Receptors: Involvement of Nitrergic, Opioidergic, and Kynurenine Pathways

mycolabadmin

Researchers tested psilocin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, and found it could reduce seizures in mice at low doses (3-5 mg/kg) without causing psychedelic effects. The anticonvulsant benefits were mediated through several brain pathways including serotonin, cannabinoid, opioid, and nitric oxide signaling systems. The effects persisted for at least 9 days after a single dose, suggesting psilocin may have potential as a new treatment for epilepsy, though human clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Psychotomimetic compensation versus sensitization

mycolabadmin

This paper proposes a new way to understand why drugs that can cause psychosis-like effects (such as psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine) can also help treat depression and anxiety. The authors suggest that these drugs trigger compensatory responses in the brain that temporarily help us cope with stress, similar to how a runner’s high feels good during exercise. However, if someone uses these drugs repeatedly or experiences chronic stress, they may become sensitized and more vulnerable to developing actual psychotic symptoms over time.

Acute and Chronic Psilocybin in Mouse Models of Psychiatric Disorders

mycolabadmin

Researchers tested psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms) in mice bred to show obsessive-compulsive behaviors. A single dose of psilocybin reduced compulsive grooming for about a week, but giving it repeatedly over time did not help with anxiety, depression, or compulsive behaviors. The findings suggest psilocybin might work best as a one-time treatment rather than repeated doses, which has implications for how these drugs might be used in future psychiatric treatment.

A review of the neuroscience of religion: an overview of the field, its limitations, and future interventions

mycolabadmin

This review examines how neuroscience studies the brain’s role in religious experiences and behaviors. While current brain imaging technology has revealed connections between specific brain regions and religious practices like prayer and meditation, these technologies limit what researchers can study because they require people to stay still. The authors suggest that newer technologies like functional near-infrared spectroscopy could allow scientists to study the full range of religious behaviors, including movement-based rituals that are important to many faiths.

N,N-dimethyltryptamine effects on connectome harmonics, subjective experience and comparative psychedelic experiences

mycolabadmin

Researchers studied how DMT, a powerful psychedelic drug, changes brain activity patterns and how these changes relate to what people experience. Using advanced brain imaging and network analysis, they found that DMT shifts brain activity away from large-scale network patterns toward smaller, more diverse patterns. Importantly, these brain changes directly tracked with how intensely participants reported experiencing the drug’s effects moment-to-moment.

“Plants of the Gods” and their hallucinogenic powers in neuropharmacology — A review of two books

mycolabadmin

This review examines two books about plants that have been used in religious and healing rituals across many cultures for their mind-altering properties. The author verifies that the hallucinogenic plants described in Carlos Castaneda’s popular books about a Yaqui sorcerer are accurately portrayed pharmacologically. The review explains how different sacred plants like peyote, certain mushrooms, and nightshade varieties affect the brain through various chemical pathways, while noting their dangers when misused.

Research Keyword: Neurotransmitter systems

Psilocin, A Psychedelic Drug, Exerts Anticonvulsant Effects Against PTZ- and MES-Induced Seizures in Mice via 5-HT1A and CB1 Receptors: Involvement of Nitrergic, Opioidergic, and Kynurenine Pathways

Psychotomimetic compensation versus sensitization

Acute and Chronic Psilocybin in Mouse Models of Psychiatric Disorders

A review of the neuroscience of religion: an overview of the field, its limitations, and future interventions

N,N-dimethyltryptamine effects on connectome harmonics, subjective experience and comparative psychedelic experiences

“Plants of the Gods” and their hallucinogenic powers in neuropharmacology — A review of two books