In this study, we explore how the notion of meta-representations in higher-order theories (HOT) of consciousness can be implemented in computational models. HOT suggests that consciousness emerges from meta-representations, which are representations of first-order sensory representations. However, translating this abstract concept into a concrete computational model, such as those used in...
Though distinctly different in their effects, hallucinations occurring from schizophrenia (SCZ) symptoms and psychedelic drug action can appear similar. To investigate how different mechanisms underlie these effects, this paper highlights similarities at the molecular and anatomical network level and identifies potential new therapeutic applications and directions for research. This paper...
The last few years have seen exponential growth in interest, investment, advocacy, and research into psychedelics as therapeutics. This reflects an optimism about the potential promise of psychedelics as therapeutics. As with all therapeutic interventions, research is needed not only into their benefits but also potential risks. Indeed, when substances with therapeutic potential are scrutinized...
After a dormant period of over 30 years, research into the use of traditional as well as some non-traditional psychedelics has enjoyed a resurgence around the world. This paper investigates the biological and psychological operations of psychedelics, comparing its, merits relative to other mental health care approaches. This form of therapy is unique in that it aims to heal, rather than merely...
Despite decades of neuroscience research and significant investment in addiction neuroimaging, clinical outcomes for individuals with substance use and behavioural addictions remain poor. Only 1.8% of people with substance use disorders receive effective treatment, highlighting a major disconnect between mechanistic understanding and clinical utility. This paper calls for a reorientation of...
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) are debilitating psychiatric conditions associated with significant psychosocial and economic burdens. Conventional antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs, often produce inadequate responses and cause sexual dysfunction, contributing to poor adherence and diminished quality of life. This review aims to evaluate the...
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) remains a major challenge in the management of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine and a glutamatergic modulator, was approved by the FDA and EMA for TRD in 2019. Beyond its rapid antidepressant effects, esketamine may enhance neuroplasticity, facilitating the reconnection with emotional and cognitive processes,...
Substance use disorders (SUDs), including alcohol, opioid, and cocaine dependencies, present significant challenges in public health. Current treatment modalities often face limitations in efficacy and accessibility, necessitating exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Ketamine, originally recognized for its anesthetic properties, has garnered attention for its potential in treating SUDs...
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and near-death experiences (NDEs) represent profound disruptions in brain function, often associated with dramatic changes in consciousness, self-perception, and behavior. While these events are typically studied for their pathological consequences, a growing body of evidence suggests they may also trigger unexpected cognitive and creative enhancements in a subset...
Ketamine's antidepressant effects have been linked to its modulation of glutamatergic neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. However, the precise roles of both glutamate (Glu) levels and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in this process remain incompletely understood. This study examined the relationship between ketamine-induced changes in Glu levels and peripheral BDNF levels using...