Serotonergic psychedelics have been shown to increase dendritic arborization, spinogenesis, and synaptogenesis, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. This seems to operate in a similar neural pathway to BDNF (TrkB and mTOR receptors), and it is mediated by the serotonin 2A receptors. This is one potential antidepressant  mechanism of psychedelic drugs.

Scripps College

Psychedelics (or hallucinogens) are a class of psychoactive substances (Psychoplastogens) that produce changes in perception, mood, and cognitive processes, such as altering thinking, sense of time, and emotions. They can also cause a person to see or hear things that do not exist or are distorted. They can be naturally occurring or synthetic. Examples include:
- Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
- Dimethyltryptamine (DMT)
- 3-[2-(Dimethylamino)ethyl]-1H-indol-4-yl dihydrogen phosphate (Psilocybin)
- Mescaline
- Peyote


Psychedelic Drugs

The nervous system's capacity to change and adapt is known as neuroplasticity. This adaptation can be triggered by various factors, such as personal experiences, normal developmental stages, or in response to damage or injury. The underlying mechanisms of neuroplasticity include the formation of new synapses, the elimination of unused ones, modifications in glial cells, and even the generation of new neurons. While the brain's plasticity is at its peak during early life, it retains a significant capacity for change and reorganization throughout adulthood.

Neuroplasticity

Ly, C., Greb, A. C., Cameron, L. P., Wong, J. M., Barragan, E. V., Wilson, P. C., Burbach, K. F., Soltanzadeh Zarandi, S., Sood, A., Paddy, M. R., Duim, W. C., Dennis, M. Y., Mcallister, A. K., Ori-Mckenney, K. M., Gray, J. A., & Olson, D. E.. (2018). Psychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity. Cell Reports, 23(11), 3170–3182. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2018.05.022

Psychedelics Promote Structural and Functional Neural Plasticity

Psychedelics, in particular LSD and psilocybin, have been investigated as potential treatments for depressive symptoms. There is evidence for short-, medium-, and long-term usefulness in both micro-dosing and regular studies. In addition to the potential cognitive stimulation (LSD) or emotional well-being effects (psilocybin), these treatments are generally well-tolerated in clinical and general populations. In addition, MDMA has received breakthrough treatment status with the FDA for the treatment of PTSD.

Potential clinical uses for psychedelics

Psychedelics and Neuroplasticity

Psilocybin is a 5HT-2A (serotonin 2A) receptor agonist that is a naturally-occurring psychedelic compound. It is derived from over 200 species of fungi, many from the genus Psilocybe. A purified bioactive compound derived from medicinal mushrooms.

Psilocybin

A meta-analysis of randomized trials investigating the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) for alcohol use disorder (AUD) demonstrated substantial and statistically significant improvements in LSD's effectiveness compared to control conditions. Furthermore, clinical studies indicate promising anti-addiction effects of LSD and related classic psychedelics in the treatment of alcohol and other substance use disorders.

Reduction in Alcohol Use Disorder and consumption after psychedelic use

The case of ABC reporter Bob Woodruff serves as a powerful example of recovery from severe trauma. After a bomb explosion in Iraq caused a traumatic brain injury, he experienced significant cognitive problems, including difficulties with memory and language. Through intensive cognitive and speech therapy, Woodruff was able to achieve a remarkable recovery of his functions.

Bob Woodruff's Recovery from Traumatic Brain Injury

Using the information from the case study, explain the biological principle that most likely accounts for the patient's significant recovery of function. Describe at least two specific changes at the neural level that could have facilitated this recovery.

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