Psychedelic-inspired approaches for treating neurodegenerative disorders.
Hannah N Saeger, David E. Olson
Journal of Neurochemistry July 1, 2022 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15544 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | Ayahuasca Neuroplasticity Psilocybin |
| Keywords | Alzheimer's disease Bpsd Frontotemporal dementia Neurodegeneration Psychedelic Psychoplastogen |
| Citations | 59 |
| Key findings | Psychedelics and related compounds may prove useful for treating neurodegenerative diseases and their behavioral symptoms, warranting further investigation. |
Abstract
Psychedelics are increasingly being recognized for their potential to treat a wide range of brain disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorder. Their broad therapeutic potential might result from an ability to rescue cortical atrophy common to many neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases by impacting neurotrophic factor gene expression, activating neuronal growth and survival mechanisms, and modulating the immune system. While the therapeutic potential of psychedelics has not yet been extended to neurodegenerative disorders, we provide evidence suggesting that approaches based on psychedelic science might prove useful for treating these diseases. The primary target of psychedelics, the 5-HT2A receptor, plays key roles in cortical neuron health and is dysregulated in Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, evidence suggests that psychedelics and related compounds could prove useful for treating the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). While more research is needed to probe the effects of psychedelics in models of neurodegenerative diseases, the robust effects of these compounds on structural and functional neuroplasticity and inflammation clearly warrant further investigation.
Comparable studies
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- Journeying to Ixtlan: Ethics of Psychedelic Medicine and Research for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias. AJOB Neuroscience 2023
- Psychedelics for alzheimer's disease-related dementia: Unveiling therapeutic possibilities and pathways Ageing Research Reviews February 1, 2024
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Cites 107
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