Fall Research Expo 2023

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Psilocybin in a Mouse Model of Neuropathic Pain with Comorbid Depression-like State

Chronic pain is a complex brain state that has comorbid mood changes, such as depression and anxiety. This constellation of conditions presents a formidable therapeutic challenge for patients,imposing substantial personal and socioeconomic burdens given the persistent lack of amelioration. Recently, emerging research signals the therapeutic promise of psychedelics across these distinct disorders when studied in isolation. To date, no study has studied the potential of a psychedelic in the treatment of chronic pain with comorbid mood changes. In our investigation, we shed light on the promising effect of the psychedelic psilocybin on chronic pain, coinciding with improvements in pain. We hypothesize that psilocybin induces rapid and durable changes in pain metrics, coupled with mood-related behavioral improvements. Our findings lay the cornerstone for a deeper grasp of Psilocybin's therapeutic potential, coupled with endeavors to illuminate its mechanistic underpinnings.

PRESENTED BY
PURM - Penn Undergraduate Research Mentoring Program
Engineering & Applied Sciences 2025
Advised By
Joseph Cichon
MD/PhD
PRESENTED BY
PURM - Penn Undergraduate Research Mentoring Program
Engineering & Applied Sciences 2025
Advised By
Joseph Cichon
MD/PhD

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