Investigating how psychedelics affect brain plasticity using a small worm model.
Official title: Genetic analysis of psychoplasticity in C. elegans
Funded at University of Oregon · NIH-11048602 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how psychedelics might help the brain grow new connections, which could be beneficial for people dealing with depression and PTSD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oregon NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eugene, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $406,051 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA060522-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048602 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, or substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-psychiatric conditions or those who do not respond to psychedelic treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of psychedelics on brain plasticity, particularly in relation to psychiatric conditions like depression and PTSD. By using the model organism C. elegans, which shares genetic similarities with humans, the study aims to understand how these substances can promote the growth of new neural connections. The approach focuses on the polypharmacological properties of psychedelics, meaning it looks at how these drugs interact with multiple molecular targets rather than just one. This could lead to more effective treatments for mental health disorders by enhancing our understanding of how psychedelics can reverse neuronal atrophy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for treating severe psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using psychedelics for treating psychiatric disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oregon
Eugene, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lockery, Shawn R — University of Oregon
- Study coordinator: Lockery, Shawn R
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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.