Researchers in Denmark have observed reduced stress in rats after microdoses of psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in some mushrooms.

Microdosing psilocybin – taking regular but much smaller doses than those used in typical therapeutic settings – may now offer a promising new angle on the use of psilocybin for brain health issues.

Researchers, at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), showed that rats not only tolerated microdoses of psilocybin with no adverse effects, but they also had greater resilience to stress and fewer compulsive behaviours.

The study, published in Nature Molecular Psychiatry, also recorded increased cell connections in the thalamus, an important region in the brain for controlling stress and anxiety.

Mikael Palner, who led the study, said: “Now, we can determine the appropriate dosage in rats, enabling us to investigate the effects of microdosing, which could significantly advance our understanding of the brain and mental challenges.”

EARA will hold an openness event, on 8 November, hosted by the University of Copenhagen, for researchers and biomedical staff in Denmark, to foster greater openness and dialogue about the use of animals in biomedical research. Please register here.