Follow us on Google News (click on ☆)
A study published in Nature Aging shows that psilocin, an active form of psilocybin, allowed skin and lung cells to live up to 50% longer in laboratory conditions.
Tests were also conducted on elderly mice, equivalent to humans over 60 years old. Those that received the compound lived 30% longer than the others. For a human, this would translate to roughly 25 additional years of life. They also appeared healthier: their fur was thicker, with fewer white hairs.
The compound acts on several aging-related factors: it reduces cellular damage, helps cells repair their DNA, and protects chromosomes by preserving telomeres, the "caps" that stabilize them.
Psilocybin works by binding to serotonin receptors, a chemical present throughout the body. This could explain why its effects are systemic, with benefits for cells in general.
Researchers hope this discovery could eventually help improve the quality of life for elderly individuals. For now, the results are promising, but further human studies will be needed to confirm these effects.
How does psilocybin work in the body?
This compound acts as an antioxidant: it limits cellular damage over time. It also helps cells repair themselves more effectively, making them more resilient.
It protects telomeres, structures that shorten with age. Keeping them longer could slow cellular aging.
Finally, psilocybin stimulates certain serotonin receptors, which can influence metabolism and stress responses throughout the body.
Why are psychedelics difficult to study?
Substances like psilocybin are often subject to strict regulations, as they are classified as drugs. This hinders research, even though scientists are increasingly interested in them.
Conventional testing is also challenging because their effects on the brain make experiments harder to conduct. Nevertheless, recent results suggest these compounds could be useful for healthy aging.