Translational Research in Psychedelics (TRiP)

This study explores the potential of psilocybin, a serotonergic psychedelic, to reverse the negative effects of chronic stress on cognitive and emotional health. Chronic stress is associated with impaired functional connectivity, reduced synaptic plasticity, increased neuroinflammation, and altered epigenetic regulation in brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. Psilocybin’s ability to enhance neuroplasticity, reduce inflammation, and modulate epigenetic pathways offers a promising approach to counteract these stress-induced changes. Using a chronic stress model in mice, this research will assess psilocybin’s effects on stress-related cognitive deficits, anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors, and DNA methylation patterns in key brain regions. Results will provide critical insights into the molecular and epigenetic mechanisms by which psilocybin may restore brain function and resilience following chronic stress.

This study investigates the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the effects of ketamine therapy for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Given the variability in individual responses to ketamine and its complex molecular mechanisms, the research aims to identify genetic predictors and explore how DNA methylation changes mediate treatment outcomes. The study employs a naturalistic design, recruiting participants planning to take ketamine at licensed clinics. Data collection involves online health questionnaires and saliva samples collected before, during, and after ketamine administration. The findings will contribute to precision medicine approaches, improving ketamine-based therapies through insights into genomic and epigenetic factors influencing mental health treatment efficacy and safety.

This study explores the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying individual responses to psilocybin sessions. By recruiting participants from state-licensed psilocybin service centers, the research will investigate how genetic variants and psilocybin-induced changes in DNA methylation mediate therapeutic outcomes and potential adverse events. Participants will complete online health questionnaires and provide saliva samples before and after their psilocybin sessions. This study aims to advance precision medicine approaches by identifying biomarkers that predict response to psilocybin, contributing to the development of safer and more effective therapeutic strategies.

This web-based study investigates the relationships between self-reported psychedelic use, past trauma, mental health, cognition, and behavior. By collecting data through online surveys, participants provide information on their psychedelic usage history, traumatic experiences, mental health symptoms, and interpersonal relationships. The study aims to explore the impact of psychedelics on emotional well-being, cognition, and psychosocial outcomes, addressing gaps in research regarding sub-clinical effects. Insights gained will contribute to a deeper understanding of how psychedelics influence behavior and mental health in non-clinical populations.