How psilocybin affects brain circuits after chronic stress

Circuit Mechanisms of Psilocybin Following Chronic Stress

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11101140

This study is looking at how a single dose of psilocybin, a natural compound found in certain mushrooms, can help people with chronic stress by changing the way their brains work, especially in areas that are often affected by stress.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101140 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, on brain circuits in individuals experiencing chronic stress. It aims to understand how a single dose of psilocybin can lead to long-lasting therapeutic changes in the brain, particularly focusing on the prefrontal cortex, which is often impaired in stress-related disorders. By examining the neural mechanisms involved, the study hopes to uncover how psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity and improves mental health outcomes. The research involves both human participants and animal models to explore these effects comprehensively.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic stress or related neuropsychiatric conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic stress or have contraindications for psilocybin use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a rapid and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with psilocybin in promoting therapeutic effects, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.