5HT2A Receptors in Brain's Anterior Cingulate: Key to Psychedelic Therapy

How Do 5HT2A Receptors in the Brain’s Anterior Cingulate Drive Psychedelic Therapy?

A comprehensive scoping review examines the therapeutic effects of 5HT2A receptor activation in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and the mechanisms underlying psychedelic drugs’ antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. The research suggests that 5HT2A receptors in the ACC produce profound changes in excitatory neurotransmission and brain network connectivity, reducing anxious preoccupation and obsessional thoughts while promoting cognitive flexibility and long-lasting mood improvements in anhedonia through complex interactions with glutamate and GABA neurotransmission.

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LSD for Depression: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential Revealed

Can LSD treat depression?

LSD shows promising potential for treating depression by dramatically increasing brain plasticity, especially for treatment-resistant cases. Research reveals complex mechanisms that could revolutionize depression treatment.

LSD works by increasing brain plasticity and neural flexibility, potentially helping treatment-resistant depression where the brain seems stuck in maladaptive patterns.

What the data show:

• Brain plasticity: low doses drastically enhance neural flexibility
• Target population: potential breakthrough for treatment-resistant depression
• Mechanism: works differently than traditional antidepressants
• Evidence level: strong preclinical evidence from laboratory studies
• Therapeutic potential: revolutionary alternative for patients who haven’t responded to conventional treatments

A comprehensive review published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews examines LSD’s mechanisms and relevance to depression treatment, revealing that psychedelics may offer a revolutionary alternative therapy for patients who haven’t responded to conventional treatments.

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