Psilocibina e neuroplasticidade: novas perspectivas terapêuticas para depressão resistente
Leticia Almeida Castro, André Luiz Anjos Simões Júnior, Guilherme Gianizeli Corradi Simões, Vagner Rocha Simonin de Souza, Lucas Luís Meigre Dias Pereira, Ariely Lirio Sousa Lacerda, Cristiane Lyrio da Silva
Vértices September 1, 2026 DOI: 10.19180/1809-2667.v28n22026.23658 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Integrative review Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Intervention | Psilocybin |
| Key findings | Psilocybin increases BDNF expression, promotes dendritic spine growth, and enhances synaptic reorganization in mood- and cognition-related brain regions. Clinical trials show significant and sustained improvement in depressive symptoms after one or two administrations, particularly with psychotherapy, supporting psilocybin as a promising alternative for treatment-resistant depression. |
Abstract
Depression is a multifactorial mental disorder and a leading cause of global disability. A subset of patients does not respond to conventional antidepressants, characterizing treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of psilocybin in TRD, focusing on its effects on neuroplasticity. An integrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scielo, and Cochrane Library, including studies published between 2019 and 2026. Findings indicate that psilocybin increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, promotes dendritic spine growth, and enhances synaptic reorganization in brain regions associated with mood and cognition, such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Clinical trials demonstrate significant and sustained improvement in depressive symptoms after one or two administrations, particularly when combined with psychotherapy. Psilocybin emerges as a promising therapeutic alternative for TRD; however, further studies and regulatory frameworks are required to ensure safe and effective use.