How psilocybin affects brain function in the frontal cortex
Official title: Neural mechanisms of psilocybin action in the frontal cortex
Funded at Cornell University · NIH-11066015 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a natural compound found in certain mushrooms, affects brain activity in people, especially in areas that help control thinking and behavior, to see if it can help treat issues like alcohol and drug addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DA062467-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11066015 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with alcohol or stimulant addiction who may benefit from innovative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have substance use disorders or those who are not interested in psychedelic-assisted therapies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, influences brain activity in the frontal cortex, particularly focusing on specific types of brain cells called GABAergic interneurons. By studying the cellular and microcircuit mechanisms of psilocybin's action, the research aims to understand how it alters cognitive processes and potentially aids in treating substance use disorders. The study will utilize advanced techniques to observe changes in brain function immediately after psilocybin administration, which may reveal insights into its therapeutic effects. This could lead to improved treatment strategies for conditions like alcohol and stimulant addiction.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into effective treatments for addiction and improve therapeutic approaches using psychedelics.
How similar studies have gone: Other clinical trials have shown promising results with psychedelics like psilocybin in treating addiction, indicating that this approach has potential based on previous successes.
Where this research is happening
-
Cornell University
Ithaca, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bilash, Olesia M — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Bilash, Olesia M
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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.