Compounds
Psilocybin analogs present in magic mushrooms
FACTS TO KNOW
More than 180 psilocybin-containing mushrooms species are found all around the world.
One of the key ingredient found in these mushrooms is psilocybin. Psilocybin is a prodrug which means that it is an inactive molecule that converted in the body to an active molecule, psilocin, which is responsible for the psychoactive properties. Additional chemicals commonly present in minor amounts include psilocin itself, baeocystin and norbaeocystin although the extent to which these contribute to the overall effects is unclear.
Psilocybin mushrooms are often called magic mushrooms or shrooms. The small and potent liberty cap mushroom (Psilocybe semilanceata) is probably the most common and widespread species found in Europe.
Psilocybin and the related alkaloids present in these mushrooms are tryptamines. The chemicals have a structure very similar to the structure of serotonin, a chemical messenger with important roles in our brains and digestive systems. Due of this similarity, psilocin can bind to receptors in the brain that are meant for serotonin. Binding and activation of certain serotonin receptor sites correlate with the manifestation of psychedelic and therapeutic effects. The most important receptor sub-type is the 5-HT2A receptor which is responsible for the psychedelic effects of these amazing mushroom alkaloids.
Although our understanding is incomplete, recent studies have given new insights into how psilocybin works. Notably, it is thought that psilocybin works by suppressing parts of the brain that filter out information from a person’s senses. This would cause more sensory information to reach a persons consciousness, causing hallucinogenic effects and changes in perception.
Additionally, the use of psilocybin alongside psychotherapy is increasingly investigated for the treatment of some psychiatric problems such as obsessive compulsive disorder and depression. Psilocybin therapy is currently being investigated by research groups around the world. More research into psilocybin therapy is needed to investigate these potential medical uses further. Attempts to use magic mushrooms for self-treatment of any condition could be risky and is not advised.
Some disorders that could benefit from modulation of psychedelic receptors are hindered by the psychedelic effects they also induce. For this reason Neuromind is also pursuing a range of molecules inspired by the alkaloids in psychedelic mushrooms that can modulate the same receptors but that do not induce strong hallucinations or changes in consciousness making these powerful tools more available and useful to those who need it.