Psilocybin induces stereotyped movements and reduces defensive responding in planarians through 5-hydroxytryptamine mechanisms.
Razeen J. Akbar, Amy D. Stringer, Sonita Wiah, Meghana Dachepalli, Stephanie E. Daws, Saadet Inan, Scott M. Rawls
Behav Pharmacol July 1, 2026 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000879 (opens in new tab) via PubMed
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractPsilocybin, a psychedelic compound, causes repetitive, stereotyped movements and reduces defensive reactions in planarian flatworms. These effects are mediated by the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine). The findings suggest that psilocybin's behavioral actions in this simple animal model are linked to serotonergic signaling.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Experimental study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Population | Planarians |
| Intervention | Psilocybin |
| Key finding | Psilocybin induces stereotyped movements and reduces defensive responding in planarians through 5-hydroxytryptamine mechanisms. |
Abstract
Psilocybin induces stereotyped movements and reduces defensive responding in planarians through 5-hydroxytryptamine mechanisms.