Psychedelic Neuroscience: Katrin Preller (Part 3)

Neuroimaging techniques are instrumental in transitioning psychiatry from descriptive classification to identifying objective, brain-based measures. These tools offer insights into the neural mechanisms underlying psychedelic effects, moving toward more individualized care. Investigations into Psilocybin and LSD utilize techniques like EEG and fMRI to explore brain activity, connectivity, and specific drug-induced states. For instance, psilocybin has been shown to enhance positive affect while reducing neural response to negative stimuli in the amygdala, suggesting a potential antidepressant mechanism. Research into LSD involves pharmacological fMRI studies using ketanserin, a 5-HT2A antagonist, to isolate the contribution of this receptor to the psychedelic experience.