Psychedelic Drug DOI Pinpoints Anxiety Circuits Avoiding Hallucinogenic Effects, Study Finds
In a groundbreaking study published in Neuron, researchers at Johns Hopkins University uncovered how the psychedelic drug DOI (2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine) reduces anxiety by activating particular neurons in the brain. The research looks at a specific type of brain cell called parvalbumin-positive interneurons, wich are found in the ventral hippocampus and help control how other brain cells communicate with each other.
As PsyPost reported, results revealed that DOI, which has calming effects, works by influencing these particular cells. This discovery marks a step forward in understanding psychedelics’ potential for treating anxiety, revealing critical distinctions in brain activity associated with therapeutic benefits versus hallucinogenic effects.
Activating Anxiety-Reducing Neurons
The research team, led by Praachi Tiwari, conducted behavioral tests on mice and rats to determine DOI’s impact on anxiety. Rodents given DOI spent more time in open, anxiety-inducing spaces, such as the elevated plus maze’s open arms or the center of an open field. These behaviors are …