Neuropharmacology
May 1, 2025
Jakub Schimmelpfennig, Kamila Jankowiak-Siuda
47 citations
DMT, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in plants, animals, and humans, may have a broader biological role than previously understood. Recent studies have found DMT levels in rodent brains comparable to classical neurotransmitters, challenging earlier reports of only trace amounts. This review examines DMT's biosynthetic pathways, focusing on the enzyme INMT and its isoforms, and how physiological conditions like stress and hypoxia influence DMT levels. DMT's lipophilic properties allow it to cross cell membranes and activate intracellular 5-HT2A receptors, contributing to neuroplasticity. The widespread evolutionary presence of DMT's biosynthetic pathways suggests essential roles in development and cellular adaptation, highlighting potential clinical applications.
Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia
January 1, 2023
J. Schimmelpfennig, Kamila Jankowiak-Siuda
1 citation
Endogenous N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound with unique biological and physiological properties that may influence nervous system function. The review describes DMT's biosynthesis, metabolism, and interactions with receptors, particularly sigma-1 and trace amine-associated receptors, beyond its well-known action at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. It discusses DMT's potential roles in neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, and modulation of consciousness, as well as its possible involvement in endogenous states such as dreaming, near-death experiences, and psychosis. The authors suggest that DMT may act as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator with effects on cognitive and emotional processes, highlighting its therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.
Pharmacotherapy in Psychiatry and Neurology
January 1, 2023
J. Schimmelpfennig, Kamila Jankowiak-Siuda
N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), a naturally occurring psychedelic compound, shows promise for treating psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, and addiction, as well as neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. DMT acts primarily on serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A subtype, and also interacts with sigma-1 receptors, which may contribute to neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. The review discusses DMT's mechanisms, including its ability to promote neuroplasticity and reduce neuroinflammation. While preclinical evidence is encouraging, the authors note that clinical research remains limited, and further studies are needed to establish safety and efficacy in humans.
Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia
January 1, 2021
Maciej Giermakowski, Kamila Jankowiak-Siuda, Anna Duszyk-Bogorodzka
Lucid dreaming (LD) is a type of dream in which the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming. Awareness during LD is described as bimodal, because it contains features of primary consciousness, such as perception and emotions, and secondary consciousness, such as self-reflection, abstract thinking, and metacognition. The aim of this work is to characterize lucid dreaming and indicate its neurocorrelates based on polysomnographic data and neuroimaging methods. So far, few studies have been conducted in this area, and their results do not provide a coherent picture of the associated brain activity.