Ann Arbor Times

Researchers at the University of Michigan have identified that certain psychedelic compounds can significantly enhance the brain's aptitude to adapt and learn new concepts for extended periods. This research is particularly relevant given the prevalence of cognitive flexibility impairments in numerous psychiatric and neurological disorders.

"Psychedelic compounds are being tested in ongoing clinical trials attempting to treat depression and PTSD," stated Omar Ahmed, an associate professor of psychology and senior author of the study. He noted that conditions like Alzheimer's disease often feature reduced cognitive flexibility. "We find that a single psychedelic dose can boost flexible learning over several weeks in mice, highlighting the ability of these compounds to induce long-lasting and functionally important changes to the brain."

A single dose of the psychedelic compound 25CN-NBOH was shown to improve flexible cognition and behavioral test performance in mice, persisting for weeks post-administration. This discovery, published in the journal Psychedelics, underscores the potential for psychedelic drugs to aid individuals with depression or PTSD. Elizabeth Brouns, a psychology master's student and the study's first author, remarked, "Our results show, in mouse models, that even a single dose of a psychedelic can result in lasting benefits."

The research aligns with existing clinical trial designs, which typically involve only one or two doses for conditions like depression. Tyler Ekins, a postdoctoral fellow in psychology and study co-author, explained that the nervous systems of mice serve as valuable models to understand psychedelics' functionality.

To assess cognitive adaptability, mice were either administered the psychedelic or a placebo. They then engaged with an automated training device, FED3, which dispensed food rewards for completing tasks. When task rules were deliberately switched, mice treated with the psychedelic adapted more swiftly.

This automated approach marks a methodological advance, allowing for efficient evaluation of flexible learning and minimizing the need for human intervention.

Nonetheless, Ahmed cautions against assuming this is the final answer. He highlights the need for more fundamental and translational research to perfect clinical trial designs concerning dosage and frequency of psychedelic treatment. "A lot of fundamental, basic science and translational research is needed to ensure that clinical trials utilize optimal versions and doses of psychedelic drugs," Ahmed said, adding that further research will investigate the impact of multiple doses over longer periods.