The Psychedelic Reset: How Psychedelics May Reshape the Corticostriatal Circuit in Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa involves compulsive eating restrictions and cognitive inflexibility linked to dysregulation in cortico-striatal-thalamo-cortical circuitry, particularly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum, which reinforces maladaptive habits. Current treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and medications are ineffective at addressing these neural dysfunctions. Recent research suggests psilocybin can modulate cortico-striatal function, improving rigid behavioral patterns and restoring goal-directed control over eating. Animal studies and human trials provide evidence that psilocybin therapy promotes cognitive flexibility and disrupts maladaptive decision-making, showing strong therapeutic potential for eating disorders by restoring functional connectivity in CSTC circuits.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterized by compulsive eating restrictions and cognitive inflexibility, which is linked to dysregulation within the cortico-striatal-thalamo cortical (CSTC) circuitry. Dysfunction within the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and dorsal striatum has been implicated in habitual decision making and impaired cognitive flexibility, contributing to disordered eating patterns. Neuroimaging studies show that dysregulation in the CSTC circuitry reinforces maladaptive behaviours, making it difficult for individuals with AN to withdraw from rigid eating habits and habitual behaviours. Current treatment options, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and pharmacological interventions, are ineffective in targeting underlying neural dysfunctions. Recent research suggests the efficacy of psychedelics such as psilocybin in modulating cortico-striatal function to alleviate symptoms of AN. Animal studies and human trials provide strong evidence for the positive effects of psilocybin therapy on improving rigid behavioural patterns, which restores goal-directed control over eating habits. Psilocybin regulates activity within the CSTC circuitry, promoting cognitive flexibility and disrupting maladaptive decision-making associated with AN. Psychedelics show strong therapeutic potential for treating eating disorders by restoring functional connectivity in CSTC circuits and facilitating the shift from habit-driven to goal-directed behaviour. This poster explores how psychedelics may effectively target cortico-striatal dysfunction to promote behavioural change in individuals with AN. Future research should examine the long-term therapeutic effects of psilocybin in humans to differentiate if positive impact is due to neural changes or emotional experiences.