Research Keyword: serotonin receptors

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

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.

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Classic psychedelics do not affect T cell and monocyte immune responses

Researchers tested whether common psychedelic drugs (LSD, psilocin, DMT, and mescaline) directly affect human immune cells in laboratory conditions. They found that these psychedelics did not suppress T cell function or immune signaling at the doses tested. This is good news for patients with serious illnesses who might benefit from psychedelic-assisted therapy, as it suggests these treatments won’t dangerously weaken their already compromised immune systems.

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A Review of the Food and Drug Administration Pipeline and Proposed California Legislation on Medicinal Psychedelics

Psychedelic compounds like psilocybin and ketamine show promise in treating serious mental health conditions including PTSD and depression. The FDA carefully evaluates these drugs through multi-phase clinical trials to ensure they are safe and effective. While California has proposed making psychedelics more widely available through legislation, the FDA’s thorough approval process provides important protections by identifying potential risks and ensuring proper medical oversight.

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The Impact of Psilocybin on High Glucose/Lipid-Induced Changes in INS-1 Cell Viability and Dedifferentiation

Researchers tested whether psilocybin, a compound from magic mushrooms, could protect pancreatic β-cells (which produce insulin) from damage caused by high glucose and fat levels. Using laboratory cells, they found that psilocybin reduced β-cell death by preventing apoptosis and showed promise in reducing dedifferentiation (when cells lose their specialized functions). However, psilocybin didn’t restore the cells’ ability to respond to glucose by releasing insulin.

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Effects of hallucinogenic drugs on the human heart

Hallucinogenic drugs like LSD and psilocybin affect not only the brain but also the heart. These drugs increase heart rate and contractility mainly through specific serotonin and histamine receptors. While these effects might have therapeutic potential for psychiatric conditions, prolonged use can damage heart valves and cause dangerous arrhythmias. Understanding these cardiac effects is crucial for safe medical use and treatment of overdoses.

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Psilocybin as Transformative Fast-Acting Antidepressant: Pharmacological Properties and Molecular Mechanisms

Psilocybin, a compound from certain mushrooms, is being studied as a potential rapid-acting treatment for severe depression that doesn’t respond to standard antidepressants. Unlike conventional antidepressants that take weeks to work, psilocybin shows promise for producing mood improvements within days. The drug works by activating serotonin receptors in the brain and promoting the growth of new neural connections, though researchers are still working to fully understand how it achieves its antidepressant effects.

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Serotonin and psilocybin activate 5-HT1B receptors to suppress cortical signaling through the claustrum

Researchers found that serotonin and psilocybin (the active compound in magic mushrooms) work through the same brain mechanism to suppress certain neural signals in a brain region called the claustrum. This region controls how different parts of the cortex communicate with each other. The study shows that psilocybin directly targets serotonin 5-HT1B receptors to quiet down signals from one brain area to another, which may explain how psychedelics change cortical network activity and alter consciousness.

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Attitudes toward psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy among potential mental health service users and the general population in Australia

This Australian study surveyed over 500 people about their views on psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA for treating mental health conditions. Most people supported medical legalization of these substances, though many had safety concerns. Those with mental illness, those with prior psychedelic experience, and those with better knowledge of psychedelics were most supportive of their therapeutic use.

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Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Psilocybe Mushrooms: Gaps and Perspectives

This comprehensive review examined what we know about Psilocybe mushrooms, which are known for their mind-altering effects due to compounds called psilocybin and psilocin. The study found that while these mushrooms show promise for treating depression and anxiety, most research has focused only on their psychoactive properties. The review identified over 30 chemical compounds in these mushrooms and noted that some species show potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The authors emphasize that much more research is needed to explore other potential health benefits and to understand exactly how individual compounds work in the body.

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Review of Psilocybin Use for Depression among Cancer Patients after Approval in Oregon

Psilocybin, the active compound in certain mushrooms, shows promise as a treatment for depression and anxiety in cancer patients, particularly those nearing end of life. Oregon legalized supervised psilocybin therapy in 2020, making it the first U.S. state to do so. While clinical research shows the treatment can rapidly reduce depression and improve quality of life, the actual rollout has faced challenges including regulatory hurdles, lack of professional standards, and unequal geographic access.

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