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Psilocybin: the mechanism of action and therapeutic potential
Mintálová, Tímea ; Novotný, Jiří (advisor) ; Vejmola, Čestmír (referee)
Psilocybin is a psychoactive molecule derived from tryptamine precursors that is present in some mushrooms, especially those belonging to the Psilocybe genus. Its pharmacologically active metabolite, produced by dephosphorylation, is psilocin, which can cross the blood-brain barrier. It is believed that the psychedelic effects of psilocin result from its partial agonistic activities on 5-HT2A receptors, the main receptor subtype among serotonin G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Psilocin also binds to a number of other subtypes of these receptors, but the effects it has on these receptors have not been fully explored yet. Psilocybin has been studied for its potential use in treating anxiety, depression, and disorders caused by addictive substances when administered in concentrations sufficient to produce psychedelic effects. The pharmacological potential of psilocybin is without the risks of potential addiction or overdose compared to other psychoactive drugs such as cocaine, alcohol, methamphetamine, and others. Due to the increasing worldwide trend of addiction, overdose, and suicidal deaths, it is necessary to seek new therapeutic alternatives. However, it is also necessary to assess various contraindications that may limit the possibility of using psilocybin as a pharmacological therapy....
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