Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system

Endogenous N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound with unique biological and physiological properties that may influence nervous system function. The review describes DMT's biosynthesis, metabolism, and interactions with receptors, particularly sigma-1 and trace amine-associated receptors, beyond its well-known action at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. It discusses DMT's potential roles in neuroplasticity, neuroprotection, and modulation of consciousness, as well as its possible involvement in endogenous states such as dreaming, near-death experiences, and psychosis. The authors suggest that DMT may act as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator with effects on cognitive and emotional processes, highlighting its therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

AMA Schimmelpfennig J, Jankowiak-Siuda K. Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system. Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology. 2023;18(1):1-10. doi:10.5114/nan.2023.129068. APA Schimmelpfennig, J., & Jankowiak-Siuda, K. (2023). Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system. Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology, 18(1), 1-10. https://doi.org/10.5114/nan.2023.129068 Chicago Schimmelpfennig, Jakub, and Kamila Jankowiak-Siuda. 2023. "Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system". Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology 18 (1): 1-10. doi:10.5114/nan.2023.129068. Harvard Schimmelpfennig, J., and Jankowiak-Siuda, K. (2023). Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system. Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology, 18(1), pp.1-10. https://doi.org/10.5114/nan.2023.129068 MLA Schimmelpfennig, Jakub et al. "Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system." Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology, vol. 18, no. 1, 2023, pp. 1-10. doi:10.5114/nan.2023.129068. Vancouver Schimmelpfennig J, Jankowiak-Siuda K. Unique biological and physiological properties of endogenous N, N-dimethyltryptamine from the perspective of functioning of the nervous system. Neuropsychiatria i Neuropsychologia/Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology. 2023;18(1):1-10. doi:10.5114/nan.2023.129068.