Psychedelic Research Advances Toward Non-Hallucinogenic Anxiety Treatments

New study identifies separate neural circuits for anxiety relief and hallucinations, paving the way for targeted therapies.

Researchers at UC Davis have mapped specific neural circuits responsible for the anti-anxiety effects of psychedelics, distinct from those causing hallucinations.
The study employed the psychedelic DOI in mice, showing that anxiety reduction persists long after hallucinatory effects dissipate.
Using molecular tagging and optogenetics, scientists reactivated anxiety-reducing neurons in the prefrontal cortex independently of psychedelic drugs.
Findings indicate potential for developing psychedelic-based treatments that alleviate anxiety without hallucinogenic side effects.
The research underscores the importance of understanding psychedelic neurocircuitry to develop safer, targeted therapeutic approaches.