Effects of serotonergic psychedelics on synaptogenesis and immediate early genes expression – comparison with ketamine, fluoxetine and lithium

bioRxiv – August 07, 2024

Source: medRxiv/bioRxiv/arXiv

Summary

Recent findings show that serotonergic psychedelics may enhance brain connectivity more effectively than traditional antidepressants. By comparing these substances to ketamine, fluoxetine, and lithium, researchers discovered that psychedelics promote synaptogenesis and activate immediate early genes, suggesting a promising avenue for treating depression.

Abstract

Background Recent evidence suggests that psychedelics are able to induce rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects. The generally acknowledged explanation for these traits is the phenomenon of neuroplasticity, although exact underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear.