Neuroplasticity and psychedelics: A comprehensive examination of classic and non-classic compounds in pre and clinical models

Classic psychedelics (LSD, psilocybin, N,N-DMT) and non-classic psychedelics (ketamine, MDMA) enhance neuroplasticity—the nervous system's ability to adapt—through molecular, structural, and functional changes. Animal studies indicate these drugs induce meta-plasticity (heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli) and hyper-plasticity (re-opening developmental windows for long-term structural changes), with implications for mood and behavior. Translating these findings to humans faces challenges due to limitations in current imaging techniques, but promising new directions include novel PET radioligands, non-invasive brain stimulation, and multimodal approaches. This review informs the development of targeted interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Neuroplasticity, the ability of the nervous system to adapt throughout an organism's lifespan, offers potential as both a biomarker and treatment target for neuropsychiatric conditions. Psychedelics, a burgeoning category of drugs, are increasingly prominent in psychiatric research, prompting inquiries into their mechanisms of action. Distinguishing themselves from traditional medications, psychedelics demonstrate rapid and enduring therapeutic effects after a single or few administrations, believed to stem from their neuroplasticity-enhancing properties. This review examines how classic psychedelics (e.g., LSD, psilocybin, N,N-DMT) and non-classic psychedelics (e.g., ketamine, MDMA) influence neuroplasticity. Drawing from preclinical and clinical studies, we explore the molecular, structural, and functional changes triggered by these agents. Animal studies suggest psychedelics induce heightened sensitivity of the nervous system to environmental stimuli (meta-plasticity), re-opening developmental windows for long-term structural changes (hyper-plasticity), with implications for mood and behavior. Translating these findings to humans faces challenges due to limitations in current imaging techniques. Nonetheless, promising new directions for human research are emerging, including the employment of novel positron-emission tomography (PET) radioligands, non-invasive brain stimulation methods, and multimodal approaches. By elucidating the interplay between psychedelics and neuroplasticity, this review informs the development of targeted interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders and advances understanding of psychedelics' therapeutic potential.