Psilocybin-sensitive brain–immune pathway that shapes stress responses
A Psilocybin-Sensitive Neuroimmune Circuit Controlling Stress Behaviors
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11285205
This research explores whether a psilocybin-responsive brain-and-immune pathway can change stress-related brain circuits linked to mood problems and addiction.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11285205 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you have stress-related mood problems or struggles with substance use, this project looks at how psilocybin affects interactions between brain cells and immune cells to change stress behaviors. Using animal models, scientists will map circuits in the nucleus accumbens and identify immune cells that are drawn to the brain's protective layers after chronic stress. They will manipulate the 5-HT2A serotonin receptor and immune signals to see how those changes alter stress-related behaviors tied to reward and addiction. The goal is to reveal mechanisms that could guide new treatments targeting both brain circuits and immune responses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with stress-related mood disorders or substance use disorders are the patients most likely to benefit from findings coming from this research.
Not a fit: People with conditions unrelated to stress, mood, or addiction—or those needing immediate clinical care—are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this preclinical project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new treatment targets that address both stress-linked mood disorders and substance use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Early animal work and some preliminary human trials support psilocybin's effects on mood and addiction, but focusing on immune–brain interactions through the 5-HT2A pathway is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WHEELER, MICHAEL ALEX — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: WHEELER, MICHAEL ALEX
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.
Conditions: Affective Disorders