I was wondering about where in the brain the effects of psilocybin took place and came across this interesting graphic showing psilocybin binding of serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, from the Heffter Research Institute in Zurich which funds psychedelic research (including a bunch I've already reported on, like our old pal Roland Griffiths). Red and yellow indicate the highest receptor concentrations. If I'm looking at this correctly, the frontal lobes get hit pretty hard.
I was also very interested in a brief mention of one of their other studies where, "comparing subjects in a meditation
state with subjects under the influence of psilocybin, 3-D EEGs showed
striking similarities between the two states of consciousness. This
result may further explain how psilocybin “awakens” the brain patterns
that occur during meditative and spiritual states of consciousness."
Also funded by Heffter was pooled research by Franz Vollenweider of 8 double blind placebo controlled studies, suggesting "that the administration of moderate doses of psilocybin to
healthy, high-functioning and well-prepared
subjects in the context of a carefully monitored
research environment is associated with an acceptable level of risk."
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
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