Challenges in translational research: MDMA in the laboratory versus therapeutic settings.
Harriet de Wit, Anya K. Bershad, Charles S. Grob
Journal of psychopharmacology (Oxford, England) March 1, 2022 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211015221 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA |
| Keywords | Mental disorders MDMA Trials Psychedelic research Ecstasy research Clinical translation Bench-to-bedside research Bridging research gap Applied research Translational MDMA Research Experimental design Clinical trial design Research methodology Controlled study design Participant characteristics research Environmental factors research MDMA Research Design |
| Citations | 11 |
| Key findings | Substantial methodological differences between clinical and laboratory studies of MDMA hinder translation of findings, but bridging these gaps is possible. |
Abstract
Despite substantial progress in the use of mind-altering drugs to treat psychiatric disorders, the psychological processes through which these drugs change mood or behavior are poorly understood. Controlled laboratory studies with well-defined psychological constructs are valuable to understand how these drugs manifest their therapeutic benefit. However, there are substantial methodological differences between clinical studies investigating therapeutic outcome and laboratory studies investigating the processes that might underlie the therapeutic effects. Here, we examine some of these differences using the example of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). We review differences in expectancies, social and physical context, participant characteristics, pharmacological factors, and outcome measures in studies with participants who do or do not have psychiatric diagnoses. We describe the challenges and opportunities in translating findings from laboratory studies to the clinic and identify ways to bridge the gap between these approaches.