Effects of hallucinogens on brain circuits involved in memory and perception
Neurophysiological impacts of hallucinogens on hippocampal and cortical neural circuits
This study is looking at how the psychedelic drug LSD changes brain activity in areas important for memory and vision by observing rats as they complete tasks and sleep, to learn more about how it might help or harm people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011455 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the psychedelic drug LSD affects neural circuits in the brain, particularly focusing on the hippocampus and visual cortex. By studying freely behaving rats, the researchers aim to understand how LSD alters sensory processing and memory functions. They will monitor brain activity during tasks that require spatial memory and during sleep to see how these processes are impacted by the drug. The goal is to uncover both the potential therapeutic benefits and risks associated with psychedelics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals struggling with drug addiction, depression, or anxiety disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have any of these conditions or who are not interested in psychedelic therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for treating drug addiction, depression, and anxiety disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in using psychedelics for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach may have significant potential.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ji, Daoyun — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ji, Daoyun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.