The Role of Serotonin in Low Level Visual Processes, as Revealed by Using an “Ecstasy” (MDMA)-Based Research Model
The Open Addiction Journal March 29, 2011 DOI: 10.2174/1874941001104010012 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Topics | MDMA Serotonin |
| Citations | 1 |
| Key points | Argues that MDMA-related serotonergic changes in the occipital lobe may reduce lateral inhibition between occipital neurons, broadening their tuning bandwidths and potentially affecting low-level visual perception. |
Abstract
A growing body of evidence suggests that regular ‘ecstasy’ (3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine; MDMA) use causes lasting changes to central serotonergic functioning in humans, including in the occipital lobe. Brown, Edwards, et al. [1] proposed that MDMA-related serotonergic changes in the occipital lobe may reduce lateral inhibition between occipital neurons involved in low level visual perception, resulting in broadening the tuning bandwidths of those neurons.