Student-run speaker series: Fernanda Palhano-Fontes

On Thursday June 1st at 17:00, the student-run speaker series "Neural mechanisms of psychedelic drug action" will feature a lecture by Fernanda Palhano-Fontes, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.

Her presentation, entitled "Rapid antidepressant effects of the psychedelic ayahuasca in treatment-resistant depression and its relationship to biomarkers" will be held at the Institute of Theoretical Biology, Philippstr. 12, Room 4.

Abstract: The use of ayahuasca, an indigenous brew from the Amazonian basin with psychedelic properties, has increased worldwide and its therapeutic value has been investigated. Recently, we conducted a randomized placebo-controlled trial with ayahuasca in 35 patients with treatment-resistant depression. The results suggest a significant antidepressant effect of ayahuasca with rapid onset, already one day after a single session with ayahuasca. In addition to the antidepressant effects, in this trial we also explored the sub-acute effects of ayahuasca on a number of markers such as psychiatric scales, neuropsychological tests, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), electroencephalography (EEG), and, saliva and blood tests. All assessments occurred one day before and one day after the treatment session with ayahuasca or placebo, in all patients with depression as well as in a group of 50 healthy individuals. This presentation will focus on showing some of the findings from these measurements, which should help informing on safety and on the mechanisms behind the observed antidepressant effects of ayahuasca.

Here you can find information about the next appointments!

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