Researchers Develop an LSD Analogue with Potential for Treating Schizophrenia

JRT, an LSD-related compound, is designed to promote neuroplasticity while reducing hallucinogenic potential, aiming to support schizophrenia treatment where classic psychedelics are considered unsafe. Researchers created JRT by flipping two atoms in LSD’s molecular structure to improve selectivity for serotonin receptors, especially 5-HT2A, while keeping therapeutic neurotrophic effects. In cellular and mouse assays, JRT increased dendritic spine density and synapse density in the prefrontal cortex and improved cognitive measures tied to schizophrenia. Unlike LSD, JRT reportedly did not produce hallucinogenic-like behaviors in mice and did not amplify schizophrenia-associated gene expression. The research also reports robust antidepressant-like effects and ongoing follow-up in additional disease models and analogue development.