Researchers break new ground for psychedelic studies
Psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, ibogaine, and other psychedelics are entering new degrees of legality. Various voter measures decriminalize possession and legalize therapeutic programs. Studies have followed suit, as scientists seek to uncover possibilities for medical advancements using the compounds. University of California Davis researchers may have found a way to expedite this research with a new psychedelic research tool.
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At this stage, research teams are attempting to gauge and understand the efficacy of psychedelics for specific disorders. Measuring the neural activity in the frontal cortex allows doctors to look into how psychedelics are working in the brain. MRI and other cost-prohibitive or invasive methods have allowed the mapping of neural activity. Now, thanks to UC Davis researchers’ Ca2+-activated Split-TurboID (CaST), a rapid, noninvasive method to do the same thing.
The technology works by measuring intracellular calcium, a sign of cell signaling, by introducing naturally occurring biotin. Previously, implants that would take hours to activate were the way to map this activity. CaST is testing technology that will provide results 10 to 30 minutes after activation with a much less invasive process.
Researchers tested CaST on mice after giving them a measured dose of psilocybin. Now, the team is working to develop brain-wide mapping techniques using the method. At this stage, mice could already be at work advancing psychedelic research. Human approval will likely widen psychedelic understanding faster than ever before.
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These studies are a foundational component of research that makes huge advancements possible. Knowing how various magic mushroom strains impact specific parts of the brain or understanding how much LSD might relieve anxiety or depression would illuminate a world that has long been in the dark. Western doctors will not prescribe medicine without traditional research. As CaSt and similar tools develop, it may lead to more access to therapeutic psychedelics.
