Research Topic: psychedelics

A Review of Synthetic Access to Therapeutic Compounds Extracted from Psilocybe

Scientists have discovered that magic mushrooms contain compounds called psilocybin and psilocin that show promise in treating depression and other psychiatric conditions. However, extracting enough of these compounds from mushrooms is difficult, so chemists have developed multiple ways to synthesize them in laboratories. This review examines different chemical and biological methods for producing these therapeutic compounds, from traditional synthesis techniques to modern approaches using special catalysts and enzymes, making these medicines more accessible for clinical research.

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Psilocybin induces long-lasting effects via 5-HT2A receptors in mouse models of chronic pain

Researchers found that psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, significantly reduced chronic pain in mice through activation of specific serotonin receptors. The effects lasted for up to two weeks after a single dose, suggesting lasting changes in how the nervous system processes pain. This study suggests psilocybin could be a promising new treatment for chronic pain conditions like neuropathy and inflammation.

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Network control energy reductions under DMT relate to serotonin receptors, signal diversity, and subjective experience

Researchers studied how DMT affects the brain’s ability to switch between different activity patterns. Using simultaneous brain imaging (fMRI) and electrical recordings (EEG), they found that DMT makes these transitions easier and less energy-intensive. The effects occurred primarily in brain regions with high levels of serotonin 2a receptors and were accompanied by increased complexity of brain signals and stronger subjective drug effects.

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Psychedelics action and schizophrenia

This review examines how psychedelic drugs like psilocybin and LSD affect the brain, particularly through serotonin receptors. While these compounds can produce psychosis-like symptoms similar to schizophrenia, they also promote brain plasticity and growth of neural connections. The article discusses whether psychedelics could potentially treat negative symptoms and cognitive problems in schizophrenia patients, despite their mind-altering properties, possibly through lower doses or non-hallucinogenic alternatives.

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Current situation regarding psychedelics and magic mushroom in Korea

This article reviews the current status of psychedelic mushrooms and their potential medical uses in Korea. Several wild mushroom species containing psilocybin have been identified in Korea and can cause hallucinations and other nervous system effects lasting a few hours. While psychedelics show promise for treating depression and anxiety, Korea currently classifies them as controlled substances, and only approved clinical trials can be conducted with government permission.

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Single-dose psilocybin alters resting state functional networks in patients with body dysmorphic disorder

Researchers gave eight patients with body dysmorphic disorder (an excessive preoccupation with appearance flaws) a single dose of psilocybin and measured their brain activity before and after treatment. They found that psilocybin increased communication between key brain regions involved in decision-making and attention control. Patients whose brains showed these changes experienced significant symptom improvement within a week, suggesting psilocybin may help by enhancing mental flexibility and emotional regulation in BDD.

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Psilocybin During the Postpartum Period Induces Long-Lasting Adverse Effects in Both Mothers and Offspring

A new study shows that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound being tested for postpartum depression, may actually cause harm during the breastfeeding period. While the drug helped non-pregnant mice feel less anxious, it made postpartum mothers more anxious and worsened their caregiving behaviors. Even more concerning, baby mice exposed to psilocybin through breast milk developed mood and social problems as adults, suggesting potential lasting risks for human infants.

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Knowledge, perceptions, and use of psychedelics for mental health among autistic adults: An online survey

This survey studied how autistic adults feel about using psychedelics like psilocybin mushrooms for mental health. Nearly 70% of participants had tried psychedelics before and most found them helpful for anxiety and depression. Many participants were interested in trying them or participating in research, though legal and practical barriers stood in the way. The study suggests that psychedelics could be a promising treatment option for autistic people with mental health challenges.

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Investigating the Potential of Psilocybin for Compulsive Eating in a Rat Model of Binge Eating

Researchers tested whether psilocybin, a psychedelic compound from magic mushrooms, could help reduce compulsive eating in rats bred to binge eat high-fat, high-sugar foods. Using a fear-conditioning experiment, they found that a single dose of psilocybin did not reduce the rats’ compulsive eating behavior at the dosage tested. However, the treatment may have affected fear-related freezing responses, suggesting psilocybin might influence brain circuits involved in learning and memory.

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