Lead Story:

Human brain effects of DMT assessed via EEG-fMRI 

PNAS

Interest in psychedelics as potential treatment for depression has increased. In this study, researchers examine the effects of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) on brain function using electroencephalography (EEG) and functional MRI (fMRI). The study found a dysregulating effect on activity in the transmodal association pole (TOP) an area with high expression of serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2AR). The authors also found increased communication between TOP and the rest of the brain, which may be evidence of increased information processing and hyperassociative cognition. They were able to correlate their findings through simultaneous EEG, fMRI, and symptom reports from participants. 

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