Psilocybin prevents chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in animal models through mitochondrial trafficking preservation

As few as two doses of psilocybin prevented chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in preclinical models by preserving mitochondrial trafficking in peripheral neurons, according to a study published in Science. CIPN is a disabling, often irreversible side effect that affects millions of cancer patients and frequently forces dose reductions or discontinuation of life-saving chemotherapy. The finding identifies a novel neuroprotective mechanism and positions psilocybin as a potential prophylactic agent for an unmet clinical need with no currently proven treatments.