Magic mushroom compound may rewire Self-Awareness — scientists put it to the test

NCT ID NCT07732166

First seen Jul 28, 2026 · Last updated Jul 29, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial investigates whether psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, can alter self-awareness in healthy adults. One hundred participants will receive either 15 mg of psilocybin or an active placebo (niacin) and complete tasks measuring metacognition and body awareness before, during, and after the experience. Brain activity is tracked using near-infrared spectroscopy. The goal is to understand how psychedelics affect the sense of self, which could inform future therapies for mental health conditions.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
psilocybin, a psychedelic compound found in magic mushrooms
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward new ways to treat conditions like depression or anxiety by targeting how people perceive themselves.
What could go wrong
This is a very early, small study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Psilocybin can cause intense psychological effects, and the results may not apply to clinical populations.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Centro de Pesquisas Matteo Ricci

    RECRUITING

    Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, 22451-263, Brazil

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