This post is presented by our media partner Psychedelic News Wire
View the original article here.
Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound found in hundreds of species of hallucinogenic mushrooms. When ingested, the body converts the compound into psilocin, which is known to act on serotonin 2A receptors in the brain.
Numerous studies have shown that psilocybin can alter an individual’s cognition, mood and perception when consumed. Research has also found that the psychedelic may cause profound changes to an individual’s sense of space, self and time.
Now new research has looked into how this psychedelic affects activity in the brain and, particularly, its influence on individual neurons. For their research, the investigators studied mice that had been genetically modified, which allowed them to visualize neural activity via imaging techniques. Each mouse was trained to run on a treadmill in a fixed position, where they navigated various auditory, visual and tactile cues.
The treadmill used had been designed to imitate a virtual environment, with every mouse receiving a reward after lap completion. This system allowed investigators to analyze and record neural activity in the retro splenial cortex as each mouse performed the task. This region is important for spatial navigation and orientation.
Once this was done, the investigators carried out imaging sessions to monitor brain activity, which began by recording baseline neural activity in every mouse and administering a saline or psilocybin solution.
The investigators then compared neural activity before and after drug administration, observing that psilocybin had a huge effect on neurons in the retro splenial cortex. In their report, the researchers explained that following drug administration, neuron specificity to certain locations decreased significantly. This highlighted a reduction in the brain’s ability to encrypt spatial information.
This, they theorized, could explain why individuals under this psychedelic’s influence may experience a disrupted sense of space. Additionally, the scientists observed that psilocybin decreased coordination between neurons, which suggests that the psychedelic distorted normal patterns of communication in this particular cortex.
The investigators also pretreated some mice with ketanserin, which blocks serotonin 2A receptors. Their objective was to observe if this would modify the impact of psilocybin.
In their report, the researchers explained that changes observed in neural activity as mentioned above were prevented. This hints at these receptors interfering with the effects psilocybin has on the brain. The investigators are now focused on exploring how psilocybin affects other regions of the brain, particularly those that play a role in decision-making and motivation.
The study’s findings were reported in the “European Journal of Neuroscience.”
Many more entities, such as Compass Pathways PLC (NASDAQ: CMPS), are looking to leverage the different mechanisms of action of hallucinogens in order to develop therapeutics from these substances. As more becomes known about psychedelics, many of these medicines could become legally available around the country.
About PsychedelicNewsWire
PsychedelicNewsWire (“PNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on all aspects of psychedelics and the latest developments and advances in the psychedelics sector. It is one of 60+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, PNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, PNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. PNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.
To receive SMS alerts from PsychedelicNewsWire, text “Groovy” to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.PsychedelicNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the PsychedelicNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by PNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.PsychedelicNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
PsychedelicNewsWire
San Francisco, CA
www.PsychedelicNewsWire.com
415.949.5050 Office
Editor@PsychedelicNewsWire.com
PsychedelicNewsWire is powered by IBN
This post was originally published by our media partner here.
