Investigating the effects of psychedelics on Lateral Habenula-Dorsal Raphe Nuclei circuitry in a Lipopolysaccharide model of depression (101210911)
Basic information
Fellow: Adam Wojtas, Ph.D.
Supervisor: MUDr. Tomáš Páleníček, Ph.D.
Main recipient: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Co-recipient: n/a
Research period: 01/09/2026 – 31/08/2028
Total budget: 191,918.16 EUR
NIMH budget: 191,918.16 EUR
Supported by: European Commission (EC)
Annotation
The project investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of psychedelics, focusing on the brain circuitry between the lateral habenula (LHb) and dorsal raphe nuclei (DRN), whose dysregulation is linked to the development of depression and anxiety disorders. The study aims to test the hypothesis that psychedelics reduce pathological hyperactivity in the LHb. Utilizing a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) model of depression in rats and integrating advanced methods—such as viral tracing, in situ sequencing, fiber photometry for real-time monitoring of neuronal activity, and chemogenetic manipulation (DREADDs)—the project will characterize the effects of psychedelics on this circuitry and its behavioral correlates. The project's outcomes will significantly contribute to a better understanding of the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in affective disorders.