May 13, 2026
Robin Carhart-Harris, Richard J. Zeifman, Lorenzo Pasquini et al.
preprint
First-line dictionary definitions of ‘plasticity’ describe it as the ability (of a thing) to be shaped or molded; we call this ‘plasticity proper’. In neuroscience, however, ‘neural plasticity’ or ‘neuroplasticity’ is defined as an induced change in brain function or structure. These two plasticities are not the same. Several (but not all) popular biomarkers of neuroplasticity index part of an...
Comprehensive Psychiatry
July 1, 2025
Luca Pellegrini, Naomi A Fineberg, Sorcha O'Connor et al.
17 citations
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common and disabling condition. A large proportion of patients fail to respond to first-line treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors either selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or clomipramine. Preliminary evidence suggests psilocybin, a serotonin receptor agonist, might be efficacious. We conducted a pharmacological challenge study to...
Cureus
January 29, 2025
Sorcha O'Connor, Kate Godfrey, Sara Reed et al.
2 citations
This study's results are expected to offer critical insights into the neural mechanisms underlying the effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy in treating OCD, and whether these correlate with changes in the cognitive features of the condition. As a secondary aim, it will ascertain whether a low, tolerable dose is a feasible and efficacious clinical treatment, and will provide crucial data to...
PLoS One
2025
Eirini K. Argyri, Jules Evans, David Luke et al.
27 citations
Psychedelic induced mystical experiences have been largely assumed to drive the therapeutic effects of these substances, which may in part be mediated by changes in metaphysical beliefs. However, there is growing evidence that psychedelic experiences can also trigger long lasting distress. Studies of persisting difficulties suggest a high prevalence of ontological challenges (related to the way...
Cureus
2025
Sorcha O'Connor, Kate Godfrey, Sara Reed et al.
correction
Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a complex condition marked by persistent distressing thoughts and repetitive behaviours. Despite its prevalence, the mechanisms behind OCD remain elusive, and current treatments are limited. This protocol outlines an investigative study for individuals with OCD, exploring the potential of psilocybin to improve key components of cognition...
Pharmacological Research
September 1, 2024
Giorgia Caspani, Simon Ruffell, WaiFung Tsang et al.
13 citations
Psychedelics have emerged as promising therapeutics for several psychiatric disorders. Hypotheses around their mechanisms have revolved around their partial agonism at the serotonin 2 A receptor, leading to enhanced neuroplasticity and brain connectivity changes that underlie positive mindset shifts. However, these accounts fail to recognise that the gut microbiota, acting via the gut-brain...