Investigating how psilocybin affects brain regions related to escape behaviors in depression
Official title: Subcortical targets involved in the action of psilocybin in learned and innate escape behaviors
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11051207 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psilocybin, a natural compound found in certain mushrooms, affects parts of the brain that help us respond to stress and fear, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with depression who haven't had success with other treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2023 |
| Project end | April 15, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA059437-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051207 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder who have not found relief from standard antidepressant treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with mood disorders who are currently responding well to traditional antidepressant therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, on specific subcortical brain regions involved in learned and innate escape behaviors, particularly in the context of mood disorders like depression. By examining how psilocybin influences these brain areas, the study aims to uncover the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to its rapid antidepressant effects. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how psilocybin can be used as a treatment option, especially for those who have not found relief with traditional therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for patients suffering from depression who have not responded to conventional therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results with psilocybin in treating depression, indicating that this approach has potential based on preliminary findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davoudian, Pasha a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Davoudian, Pasha a
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.