PET Synaptogenesis After Psilocybin In Depression Recovery (PET-SPIDER)
This neuroimaging trial (n=24) investigates the effects of one high dose of psilocybin (25mg) in those with depression. It specifically investigates the synaptic density (synapses are the connections between brain cells; neurons). The aim is to assess the relationship between the antidepressant and neurotrophic (growth within brain) effects of psilocybin.
Details
Open-label treatment study in adults with major depressive disorder and anhedonia receiving a single 25 mg oral dose of psilocybin with supportive psychotherapy; PET imaging with 11C-UCB-J performed at baseline and one week post-dose to assess synaptic density.
The primary aim is to relate psilocybin-induced neurotrophic changes (SV2A binding) to antidepressant response; procedures include psychological support before, during and after dosing and multimodal imaging.