Understanding how psilocybin works in the brain
Cellular basis of psilocybin actions in frontal cortex
['FUNDING_R01'] · CORNELL UNIVERSITY · NIH-11122223
This work explores how psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, changes brain cells to help people with conditions like major depressive disorder.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CORNELL UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ITHACA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11122223 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are looking closely at how psilocybin affects brain cells in the frontal cortex, a part of the brain involved in mood and thinking. Using advanced microscopy, they are observing changes in the tiny structures of brain cells in mice after a single dose of psilocybin. The goal is to discover which specific brain receptors and cellular processes are responsible for these changes, which could explain psilocybin's potential antidepressant effects. This foundational work helps us understand how psilocybin might promote brain cell flexibility and repair.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation, but its findings are relevant to individuals living with major depressive disorder or other mood disorders that might benefit from psychedelic-assisted therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not receive benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide crucial insights into how psilocybin helps treat conditions like depression, potentially leading to more effective and targeted therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While early clinical trials show promise for psilocybin in depression, the exact biological mechanisms at the cellular level are not well understood, making this a novel and important area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
ITHACA, UNITED STATES
- CORNELL UNIVERSITY — ITHACA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KWAN, CHUN-HAY ALEX — CORNELL UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KWAN, CHUN-HAY 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.