Preliminary analysis of ayahuasca-induced anatomical alterations in the somatosensory cortex of juvenile non-human primates (Callithrix jacchus) subjected to chronic stress

Chronic stress from social isolation in juvenile male marmosets reduces neuronal volume in the somatosensory cortex, a brain region implicated in depression. Ayahuasca, a psychedelic brew, given before and during isolation prevented this reduction, with treated animals showing neuronal volumes similar to non-stressed controls. Trends also suggested preserved cortical structure, though differences in neuronal density and overall cortical volume were not statistically significant. These results indicate ayahuasca may protect against stress-induced cortical atrophy and support further research into its therapeutic potential for stress-related psychiatric disorders, especially in adolescents.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Major depressive disorder remains a debilitating mental health disorder affecting millions worldwide, with growing prevalence among adolescents. Recent studies highlight the critical role of the somatosensory cortex in the neuropathology of depression, including structural alterations that impair cortical function. This study investigates the prophylactic effects of ayahuasca, a classic psychedelic brew, on morphological changes in the somatosensory cortex induced by chronic stress in juvenile male non-human primates (Callithrix jacchus). Using a model of social isolation to simulate chronic stress, we employed stereological techniques to assess neuronal volume, density, and cortical organization in three groups: a family group (FG), an isolated group (IG), and an ayahuasca-treated group (AG). Ayahuasca was administered before and during the isolation period. Results revealed a significant reduction in neuronal volume in the IG compared to the FG, while the AG exhibited neuronal volumes comparable to FG, suggesting a prophylactic effect of ayahuasca. Although differences in neuronal density and cortical volume could not be statistically confirmed, trends indicated potential preservation of cortical structure in the AG. These preliminary findings underscore ayahuasca's potential to mitigate stress-induced cortical atrophy and highlight its influence on neural plasticity. Future research should expand sample sizes, incorporate female subjects, and investigate molecular mechanisms underlying these structural changes. This work provides foundational evidence for exploring ayahuasca as a novel therapeutic strategy for stress-related psychiatric disorders, particularly in adolescent populations.