Magic mushroom compound tested for brain boost in seniors

NCT ID NCT06367738

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Berkeley Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This early-stage study is looking at how a single dose of psilocybin, the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, might affect brain structure and function in healthy older adults aged 60 to 85. Researchers will use MRI scans to measure changes in brain plasticity and activity. The goal is to understand whether psilocybin can promote brain flexibility in aging, but this is a small, exploratory trial with no direct treatment aim.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: psilocybin
What this could lead to: If successful, this could reveal how psilocybin promotes brain flexibility in aging, potentially pointing toward future therapies for age-related cognitive decline.
What could go wrong: This is a very early Phase 1 study with only 40 healthy participants, so results may not apply to the general population or lead to any treatment. The doses vary widely, and the study focuses on brain imaging changes, not clinical benefits.

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.

AGING

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California, Berkeley
RECRUITING

Berkeley, California, 94720, United States

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