Single Psychedelic Dose Boosts Mice's Brain Flexibility for Weeks, Study Finds.

A recent study from the University of Michigan has uncovered a striking effect of a psychedelic compound on mice: a single dose was enough to improve their cognitive flexibility for weeks. Published in the journal Psychedelics, the research demonstrates that this brief psychedelic experience resulted in a lasting ability to adjust to new situations—suggesting potential for long-term therapeutic use.

The compound at the center of the study is 25CN-NBOH, known for specifically targeting serotonin 2A receptors, the same receptors responsible for the hallucinogenic effects of psychedelics. In experiments, mice received just one dose of this compound and were later tested on reversal learning tasks—a standard assessment of cognitive flexibility. Compared to untreated mice, those that received 25CN-NBOH adapted more quickly to changing rules, made fewer errors, and earned more rewards even two to three weeks after the dose.

Professor Omar J. Ahmed, senior author and psychologist at the University of Michigan, emphasized the significance of these results. “What’s particularly notable is the longevity of the cognitive improvement,” he stated. “We observed more adaptable learning behavior weeks after administration, indicating the compound might promote enduring neuroplasticity in the prefrontal cortex.”

This finding adds to a growing body of research suggesting psychedelics may create structural changes in the brain that extend beyond their immediate effects. The prefrontal cortex—a region tied to decision-making and flexible thinking—appears to be especially impacted. While it’s long been known that psychedelics can influence this area, this study highlights that such influence may translate into sustained improvements in cognitive performance.

Despite the promise, the researchers urge caution. The gap between results in animal models and human outcomes is significant, and many potential therapies that succeeded in rodents have failed to show the same efficacy in people. Still, the results raise intriguing questions: Could psychedelics unlock periods of heightened brain plasticity, similar to those seen in early development? Would repeated doses amplify benefits or lead to diminishing returns—or even negative effects?

Professor Ahmed acknowledged the many unknowns: “Our research focused on the effects of a single dose. A logical next step is to examine what occurs with multiple doses over longer periods. Does each new dose build upon the last, or is there a limit to how much benefit can be gained?”

The cognitive benefits were observed in both male and female mice, adding further weight to the findings. Lead author Elizabeth J. Brouns noted, “What stood out most was the fact that the enhancements in cognitive performance remained evident 15 to 20 days after a single treatment. This points to the possibility of lasting, beneficial changes in brain function—not just temporary shifts in perception.”

As the scientific community explores the potential of psychedelic medicine, this study offers a compelling glimpse into how a single psychedelic experience might yield long-term cognitive advantages. Still, the researchers stress the need for rigorous, evidence-based investigation to translate these findings into practical, safe treatments for human conditions.

Source:https://www.synbiobeta.com/read/these-mice-tripped-once-and-got-smarter-for-weeks

This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.