Psychedelic research gains momentum

Psychedelic mushrooms are experiencing a resurgence in medical research, particularly for their potential to treat long-lasting depression. This renewed interest contrasts with their historical association with hallucinogenic experiences.

Psilocybin’s unique brain effects

A study published in Nature Neuroscience on October 15, 2026, by researchers at the University of California at Santa Cruz, found that psilocybin, the active compound in psychedelic mushrooms, alters brain connections in mice. The study highlights that these changes occur through a different mechanism than the one responsible for hallucinations.

Brain remodeling observed in mice

Using two-photon microscopy, the researchers observed the mouse brain in real time, without invasive procedures. They tracked the development of dendritic spines, small structures on neurons that receive signals from other neurons.

Spine changes linked to learning

Dendritic spines are crucial for memory and learning. Within 24 hours of psilocybin administration, new spines formed and matured, transforming into more stable, mushroom-like shapes. This process suggests a restructuring of neural circuits.

Elimination of old connections

The study also found that psilocybin accelerated the removal of older neural connections. This process resembles pruning, where old connections are removed to make way for new ones, potentially optimizing brain function.