The cranial windows of perception

Psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, may act as a fast-acting antidepressant with lasting effects. A study in Neuron by Shao et al. (2021) demonstrates that psilocybin rapidly promotes the growth of dendritic spines in cortical layer V pyramidal neurons. This finding suggests a possible cellular basis for psilocybin's therapeutic benefits in treating depression.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Psilocybin has emerged as a potentially rapidly acting antidepressant with enduring actions. In this issue of Neuron, Shao et al. (2021) show that psilocybin quickly induces dendritic spine formation in cortical layer V pyramidal neurons. These results provide a potential cellular substrate for psilocybin's therapeutic actions.