Utility of preclinical models in the study of psilocybin – A comprehensive review
Megan Pedicini, Zachary A. Cordner
Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews January 13, 2023 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105046 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Systematic review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 57 |
| Population | Rodent models |
| Topics | Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Preclinical models Rodent models Translational neuroscience Translational psychiatry Psychedelics hallucinogens Entheogens Psilocin studies Brain science Neural studies Mental health |
| Citations | 13 |
| Key findings | The literature on psilocybin in preclinical rodent models is small, with pharmacology studies accounting for the majority, and four broad areas of investigation were identified. |
Abstract
Interest in the therapeutic potential of psilocybin across a broad range of neuropsychiatric disorders is rapidly expanding. Despite promising clinical data and tremendous public enthusiasm, complimentary basic and translational studies - which are critical for advancing our understanding of psilocybin's biological effects and promoting innovation - have been relatively few. As with all work involving the study of complex neuropsychopharmacology, the search for deeper understanding of biological mechanisms, and the need for nuanced behavioral analyses in the context of both normal and diseased states, the roles for preclinical models are clear. A systematic search of the literature identified 57 articles involving the study of psilocybin in preclinical rodent models. A comprehensive review and thematic analysis identified 4 broad areas of investigation - pharmacology, toxicity, effects on disease models, and molecular mechanisms - with pharmacology studies accounting for the majority. Though these papers represent a still remarkably small body of literature, several important conclusions can already be drawn, and several areas of high priority for future work can be identified.