IRBEH/Spit for Science Publications and Presentations
Document Type
Presentation
Original Publication Date
2025
Date of Submission
June 2025
Abstract
Smoking is a major risk factor for illnesses, such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions. In smoking, nicotine activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain region. Prolonged use of nicotine will desensitize these specific receptors and cause nicotine dependence, resulting in smokers to experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anhedonia, depression, stress, and craving, leading to relapse.2 As the rate cigarette smoking has declined over the years, it is not significantly entitled by the tremendous increase rate of e-cigarette use. In a previous study being published, life-time use of psychedelics is associated with lower nicotine dependence.1
Psychedelics, specifically psilocybin, which activate serotonin receptors (primarily 5-HT2A), are being experimented as potential treatments for substance use disorders, including smoking.2
By examining different classes of psychedelics, this study investigates both a phenethylamine based psychedelic, DOI, (2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine), and a tryptamine based psychedelic, psilocybin. Our lab previously showed that a single administration of psilocybin and DOI reduced nicotine somatic withdrawal signs 24 hours after administration, and thus we aim to further understand the mechanisms mediating this effect. The purpose of the study is to investigate whether psychedelics administered 24-hours prior will alter any acute nicotine behaviors in mice. The nicotinic behaviors examined were hypothermia, hypolocomotion, and antinociception. These behaviors are mediated by nicotinic receptors and thus will inform us on whether psychedelics have a long-lasting effect on the function of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
Rights
© The Author(s)
Is Part Of
Spit for Science Publications and Presentations
Included in
Other Physiology Commons, Pharmacology Commons, Toxicology Commons