Health
Psilocybin prevents chemotherapy-induced nerve damage in mice, study finds
Researchers at MD Anderson discover that the psychedelic compound preserves mitochondrial transport in nerve cells, with human clinical trials planned.
The short version
- A study published in Science demonstrates that psilocybin protected mice from peripheral neuropathy across up to six cycles of chemotherapy.
- The compound works neuroprotectively by preserving the microtubule transport system that moves mitochondria through nerve cells.
- Researchers plan to launch a clinical trial within about a month to evaluate psilocybin's preventive effects in human cancer patients.
Key facts
- A study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that two doses of psilocybin prevented chemotherapy-induced nerve damage in mice for up to six treatment cycles.[Scientific American]
- Study co-authors Patrick Dougherty and Moran Amit reported that this marks the first time psilocybin has functioned as a neuroprotective agent to prevent a somatic symptom rather than solely treat existing conditions.[Scientific American]
- The mechanism involves maintaining the movement of energy-producing mitochondria along nerve cell microtubules, which are typically disrupted by chemotherapy agents.[Scientific American]
- The research team plans to begin a human clinical trial involving patients receiving chemotherapy for breast, colorectal, and head and neck cancers.[Scientific American]
What remains uncertain
- Whether psilocybin will safely and effectively prevent peripheral neuropathy in human patients remains unproven until upcoming clinical trials conclude.[Scientific American]
Sources
- ‘Unparalleled’ study finds psilocybin protects against nerve damage from chemotherapyScientific American metered