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Lima G, Soares C, Teixeira M, Castelo-Branco M. Psychedelic research, assisted therapy and the role of the anaesthetist: A review and insights for experimental and clinical practices. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 39380091 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.16264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed an unprecedented increase in the search for the use of psychedelics in improving physical and mental health. Anaesthesia has evolved since very early times, born from the need to eliminate pain and reduce suffering and there are reports of the use of anaesthetics to achieve mystical states since the nineteenth century. Nowadays, the renaissance of psychedelics in anaesthesia has been inspired by their potential in the treatment of chronic pain syndromes, palliative care and in the emergency department and pre-hospital care with the administration of psychedelics in cases of ischaemia, given their potential in neuroprotection. Although there are already some published protocols for the administration of psychedelics in patients with mental illness, little has been addressed concerning non-mental medical applications. In this sense, in patients with multiple comorbidities, functional limitations and polymedicated, the anaesthetist may play a fundamental role, not only in clinical practice, but also in translational research. This article focuses on the description of psychedelics, with a particular focus on dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and ayahuasca pharmacology, effects, safety and toxicity. A detailed description of the role of the anaesthetist in clinical and experimental research is provided, from participant's screening to preparation and dosing session, expected adverse effects and how to manage them, based on the protocol and standard procedures of a current study with neuroimaging during the psychedelic experience. Specific considerations regarding the management of psychedelic toxicity are also provided as well as future directions for safe psychedelic use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Lima
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carla Soares
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marta Teixeira
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Castelo-Branco
- Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute of Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS), Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine (FMUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Graça SC, Bustelli IB, Santos ÉVD, Fernandes CG, Lanaro R, Stilhano RS, Linardi A, Caetano AL. Banisteriopsis caapi extract: Implications for neuroinflammatory pathways in Locus coeruleus lesion rodent model. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 337:118775. [PMID: 39244172 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Ayahuasca is a beverage obtained from the decoctions of Banisteriopsis caapi (Spruce ex Griseb.) Morton and Psychotria viridis Ruiz & Pav., used throughout the Amazon as a medicinal beverage for healing and spiritual exploration. The Banisteriopsis caapi extract consists of harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine (THH); which inhibit the isoforms of monoamine oxidase A and B. In the central nervous system (CNS), it can increase the norepinephrine (NE) concentration, produced in the Locus coeruleus (LC), reducing inflammation that is associated with some neurological disease, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. AIM OF THE STUDY evaluate the effects of treatment with B. caapi extract on the neuroinflammatory profile in animals with selective LC lesions. MATERIAL AND METHODS male Wistar rats with LC lesions induced by 6-hydroxydopamine were treated with B. caapi extract. Subsequently, behavioral tests were conducted, including the elevated plus maze, rotarod, and open field. Tyrosine hydroxylase positive (TH+) neurons and IBA-1 positive microglia were quantified from the LC inflammatory markers and free radical products were assessed. RESULTS Both 6-Hydroxydopamine hydrochloride and the Banisteriopsis caapi extract causes reduction of LC neurons, at the concentration and frequency used. The LC depletion and the treatment of B. caapi extract interfere with locomotion. B. caapi extract and the LC lesion increased the number and activation of inflammatory cells, such as microglia. B. caapi extract decreases IL-10 in the hippocampus and BDNF gene expression. CONCLUSION This study suggests that B. caapi extract (at the concentration and frequency used) promotes noradrenergic neuron depletion and creates a proinflammatory environment in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santhiago C Graça
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Isabella B Bustelli
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Érica V Dos Santos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Carolina G Fernandes
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Rafael Lanaro
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), 13083-894, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - Roberta S Stilhano
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alessandra Linardi
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ariadiny L Caetano
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Santa Casa de São Paulo School of Medical Sciences (FCMSCSP), 01221-020, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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White E, Kennedy T, Ruffell S, Perkins D, Sarris J. Ayahuasca and Dimethyltryptamine Adverse Events and Toxicity Analysis: A Systematic Thematic Review. Int J Toxicol 2024; 43:327-339. [PMID: 38363085 PMCID: PMC11088222 DOI: 10.1177/10915818241230916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic thematic review of adverse events, safety, and toxicity of traditional ayahuasca plant preparations and its main psychoactive alkaloids (dimethyltryptamine [DMT], harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine), including discussing clinical considerations (within clinical trials or approved settings). A systematic literature search of preclinical, clinical, epidemiological, and pharmacovigilance data (as well as pertinent reviews and case studies) was conducted for articles using the electronic databases of PubMed and Web of Science (to 6 July 2023) and PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Embase (to 21 September 2022) and included articles in English in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, reference lists were searched. Due to the breadth of the area covered, we presented the relevant data in a thematic format. Our searches revealed 78 relevant articles. Data showed that ayahuasca or DMT is generally safe; however, some adverse human events have been reported. Animal models using higher doses of ayahuasca have shown abortifacient and teratogenic effects. Isolated harmala alkaloid studies have also revealed evidence of potential toxicity at higher doses, which may increase with co-administration with certain medications. Harmaline revealed the most issues in preclinical models. Nevertheless, animal models involving higher-dose synthetic isolates may not necessarily be able to be extrapolated to human use of therapeutic doses of plant-based extracts. Serious adverse effects are rarely reported within healthy populations, indicating an acceptable safety profile for the traditional use of ayahuasca and DMT in controlled settings. Further randomized, controlled trials with judicious blinding, larger samples, and longer duration are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor White
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tom Kennedy
- The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Simon Ruffell
- Psychae Institue, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Onaya Science, Iquitos, Peru
| | - Daniel Perkins
- Psychae Institue, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Social and Political Science, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jerome Sarris
- Psychae Institue, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Mental Health, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, Australia
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Videira NB, Nair V, Paquet V, Calhoun D. The changing outlook of psychedelic drugs: The importance of risk assessment and occupational exposure limits. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:216-234. [PMID: 37646119 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), are currently being investigated for the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. Clinical trials with psilocybin and LSD have shown improvement in emotional and psychological scores. Although these drugs are reported to be safe in a controlled environment (such as clinical trials), exposure to low doses of these drugs can result in psychedelic effects, and therefore, occupational safety is an important consideration to prevent adverse effects in the workplace from low daily exposure. This article will discuss the factors involved in the derivation of occupational exposure limits (OELs) and risk assessment of these psychedelic drugs. To support the OEL derivations of psychedelic drugs, information regarding their mechanism of action, adverse effect profiles, pharmacokinetics, clinical effects, and nonclinical toxicity were considered. Additionally, psilocybin and LSD, which are the most extensively researched psychedelic substances, are employed as illustrative examples in case studies. The OELs derived for psilocybin and for LSD are 0.05 and 0.002 μg/m3 , respectively, which indicates that these are highly hazardous compounds, and it is important to take into account suitable safety measures and risk-management strategies in order to minimize workplace exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valérie Paquet
- formerly Affygility Solutions, Broomfield, Colorado, USA
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Ruffell SGD, Crosland‐Wood M, Palmer R, Netzband N, Tsang W, Weiss B, Gandy S, Cowley‐Court T, Halman A, McHerron D, Jong A, Kennedy T, White E, Perkins D, Terhune DB, Sarris J. Ayahuasca: A review of historical, pharmacological, and therapeutic aspects. PCN REPORTS : PSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES 2023; 2:e146. [PMID: 38868739 PMCID: PMC11114307 DOI: 10.1002/pcn5.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychedelic plant brew originating from the Amazon rainforest. It is formed from two basic components, the Banisteriopsis caapi vine and a plant containing the potent psychedelic dimethyltryptamine (DMT), usually Psychotria viridis. Here we review the history of ayahuasca and describe recent work on its pharmacology, phenomenological responses, and clinical applications. There has been a significant increase in interest in ayahuasca since the turn of the millennium. Anecdotal evidence varies significantly, ranging from evangelical accounts to horror stories involving physical and psychological harm. The effects of the brew on personality and mental health outcomes are discussed in this review. Furthermore, phenomenological analyses of the ayahuasca experience are explored. Ayahuasca is a promising psychedelic agent that warrants greater empirical attention regarding its basic neurochemical mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon G. D. Ruffell
- Onaya ScienceIquitosPeru
- Psychae InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Population and Global HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Max Crosland‐Wood
- Onaya ScienceIquitosPeru
- Psychology and Psychotherapy departmentCentral and North West London NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Rob Palmer
- Onaya ScienceIquitosPeru
- School of MedicineUniversity of YaleNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of New MexicoAlbuquerqueNew MexicoUSA
| | | | - WaiFung Tsang
- Onaya ScienceIquitosPeru
- Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and NeuroscienceSouth London and The Maudsley NHS TrustLondonUK
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Brandon Weiss
- Onaya ScienceIquitosPeru
- Division of PsychiatryImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Tessa Cowley‐Court
- Psychae InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Population and Global HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | - Andreas Halman
- School of Population and Global HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
| | | | - Angelina Jong
- Institute of Psychology, Psychiatry and NeuroscienceSouth London and The Maudsley NHS TrustLondonUK
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | | | | | - Daniel Perkins
- Psychae InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- School of Population and Global HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
- Centre for Mental HealthSwinburne UniversityMelbourneAustralia
| | - Devin B. Terhune
- Psychology and Psychotherapy departmentCentral and North West London NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Jerome Sarris
- Psychae InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- NICM Health Research InstituteWestern Sydney UniversitySydneyAustralia
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneAustralia
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Daldegan-Bueno D, Simionato NM, Favaro VM, Maia LO. The current state of ayahuasca research in animal models: A systematic review. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 125:110738. [PMID: 36863501 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The psychedelic brew ayahuasca is increasingly being investigated for its therapeutic potential. Animal models are essential to investigate the pharmacological effects of ayahuasca since they can control important factors influencing it, such as the set and setting. OBJECTIVE Review and summarise data available on ayahuasca research using animal models. METHODS We systematically searched five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, LILACS and PsycInfo) for peer-reviewed studies in English, Portuguese or Spanish published up to July 2022. The search strategy included ayahuasca- and animal model-related terms adapted from the SYRCLE search syntax. RESULTS We identified 32 studies investigating ayahuasca effects on toxicological, behavioural and (neuro)biological parameters in rodents, primates and zebrafish. Toxicological results show that ayahuasca is safe at ceremonial-based doses but toxic at high doses. Behavioural results indicate an antidepressant effect and a potential to reduce the reward effects of ethanol and amphetamines, while the anxiety-related outcomes are yet inconclusive; also, ayahuasca can influence locomotor activity, highlighting the importance of controlling the analysis for locomotion when using tasks depending on it. Neurobiological results show that ayahuasca affects brain structures involved in memory, emotion and learning and that other neuropathways, besides the serotonergic action, are important in modulating its effects. CONCLUSIONS Studies using animal models indicate that ayahuasca is toxicologically safe in ceremonial-comparable doses and indicates a therapeutic potential for depression and substance use disorder while not supporting an anxiolytic effect. Essential gaps in the ayahuasca field can still be sufficed using animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Daldegan-Bueno
- Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach (ICARO), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | | | - Vanessa Manchim Favaro
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas Oliveira Maia
- Interdisciplinary Cooperation for Ayahuasca Research and Outreach (ICARO), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil; Interdisciplinary Center for Studies in Palliative Care (CIECP), School of Nursing, Federal University of Alfenas (UNIFAL-MG), Alfenas, Brazil
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Evidence on the impairing effects of Ayahuasca on fear memory reconsolidation. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3325-3336. [PMID: 36069952 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06217-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE To uncover whether psychedelic drugs attenuate fear memory responses would advance the development of better psychedelic-based treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Ayahuasca (AYA), a psychedelic brew containing indolamine N, N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carbolines, facilitates fear extinction and improves neural plasticity. Upon retrieval, fear memory undergoes labilization and reconsolidation; however, the effects of AYA on this memory stabilization phase are unknown. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the effects of AYA treatment on fear memory reconsolidation. METHODS Fear-conditioned Wistar rats received AYA (60, 120, or 240 mg/kg) or H2O orally via gavage o.g. 20 min before, immediately, or 3 h after a short retrieval session. Analysis of AYA through liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to determine the content of DMT and β-carbolines in AYA. RESULTS AYA impaired fear memory reconsolidation when given 20 min before or 3 h after memory retrieval, with the dose of 60 mg/kg being effective at both moments. This dose of AYA was devoid of anxiolytic effect. Importantly, during retrieval, AYA did not change fear expression. The lack of retrieval abolished the reconsolidation impairing effect of AYA. The effects of AYA treatment 20 min before or 3 h after memory retrieval lasted at least 22 days, suggesting no spontaneous recovery of fear memory. Fear memory impairments induced by AYA treatment, at both moments, do not show reinstatement. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the view that a low dose of AYA treatment impairs early and late stages of memory reconsolidation instead of facilitating fear extinction.
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Silveira GDO, Lourenço FR, Bruno V, Yonamine M. Fast Hollow Fiber Liquid-Phase Microextraction as a Greener Alternative for the Determination of N,N-Dimethyltryptamine and Harmala Alkaloids in Human Urine. Front Chem 2020; 8:558501. [PMID: 33134270 PMCID: PMC7575737 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.558501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ayahuasca tea is an entheogen hallucinogenic beverage used for shamanic and spiritual purposes, prepared by the decoction of different Amazonian plants containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and harmala alkaloids. Since the therapeutic potential of this tea has been broadly studied in recent years, mainly for the treatment of psychiatric disorders, the determination of the ayahuasca tea components in human and animal matrices is of utmost importance. In order to avoid the use of large amounts of toxic solvents, typically employed in traditional sample preparation methods, hollow fiber liquid-phase microextraction (HF-LPME) presents a greener and time-saving alternative. The present study aims to fully develop and apply an HF-LPME method for the determination of DMT, harmine (HRM), harmaline (HRL), and tetrahydroharmine (THH) in human urine samples using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Fractional factorial and Box–Behnken designs were used to identify and optimize significant method variables. Once optimized, validation has shown a limit of detection (LoD) of 1.0 ng/ml for DMT and 2.0 ng/ml for the harmala alkaloid. The limit of quantification (LoQ) was of 5.0 ng/ml for all analytes. The method has shown to be linear over a concentration range of 5–200 ng/ml (r2 ≥ 0.99). Intra/inter-day precision and accuracy met the acceptance criteria at the three quality control (QC) levels studied (15.0, 90.0, and 170.0 ng/ml, n = 6, each). Matrix effect evaluation showed predominant ion enhancement and recovery values were above 80%. Dilution factors of 10- and 20-fold have shown acceptable values of accuracy. Selectivity studies showed no interferences. Analysis of eight authentic samples collected from four subjects proved method feasibility. A simple, time-saving and green alternative for the analysis of DMT and harmala alkaloids in human urine samples was developed, optimized using design of experiments, fully validated and applied to authentic samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela de Oliveira Silveira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Rebello Lourenço
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vitor Bruno
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mauricio Yonamine
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Brito-da-Costa AM, Dias-da-Silva D, Gomes NGM, Dinis-Oliveira RJ, Madureira-Carvalho Á. Toxicokinetics and Toxicodynamics of Ayahuasca Alkaloids N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), Harmine, Harmaline and Tetrahydroharmine: Clinical and Forensic Impact. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13110334. [PMID: 33114119 PMCID: PMC7690791 DOI: 10.3390/ph13110334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a hallucinogenic botanical beverage originally used by indigenous Amazonian tribes in religious ceremonies and therapeutic practices. While ethnobotanical surveys still indicate its spiritual and medicinal uses, consumption of ayahuasca has been progressively related with a recreational purpose, particularly in Western societies. The ayahuasca aqueous concoction is typically prepared from the leaves of the N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT)-containing Psychotria viridis, and the stem and bark of Banisteriopsis caapi, the plant source of harmala alkaloids. Herein, the toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of the psychoactive DMT and harmala alkaloids harmine, harmaline and tetrahydroharmine, are comprehensively covered, particularly emphasizing the psychological, physiological, and toxic effects deriving from their concomitant intake. Potential therapeutic utility, particularly in mental and psychiatric disorders, and forensic aspects of DMT and ayahuasca are also reviewed and discussed. Following administration of ayahuasca, DMT is rapidly absorbed and distributed. Harmala alkaloids act as potent inhibitors of monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), preventing extensive first-pass degradation of DMT into 3-indole-acetic acid (3-IAA), and enabling sufficient amounts of DMT to reach the brain. DMT has affinity for a variety of serotonergic and non-serotonergic receptors, though its psychotropic effects are mainly related with the activation of serotonin receptors type 2A (5-HT2A). Mildly to rarely severe psychedelic adverse effects are reported for ayahuasca or its alkaloids individually, but abuse does not lead to dependence or tolerance. For a long time, the evidence has pointed to potential psychotherapeutic benefits in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders; and although misuse of ayahuasca has been diverting attention away from such clinical potential, research onto its therapeutic effects has now strongly resurged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Machado Brito-da-Costa
- Department of Sciences, IINFACTS-Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.M.B.-d.-C.); (N.G.M.G.); (Á.M.-C.)
| | - Diana Dias-da-Silva
- Department of Sciences, IINFACTS-Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.M.B.-d.-C.); (N.G.M.G.); (Á.M.-C.)
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (D.D.-d.-S.); (R.J.D.-O.); Tel.: +351-224-157-216 (R.J.D.-O.)
| | - Nelson G. M. Gomes
- Department of Sciences, IINFACTS-Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.M.B.-d.-C.); (N.G.M.G.); (Á.M.-C.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- Department of Sciences, IINFACTS-Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.M.B.-d.-C.); (N.G.M.G.); (Á.M.-C.)
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: (D.D.-d.-S.); (R.J.D.-O.); Tel.: +351-224-157-216 (R.J.D.-O.)
| | - Áurea Madureira-Carvalho
- Department of Sciences, IINFACTS-Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal; (A.M.B.-d.-C.); (N.G.M.G.); (Á.M.-C.)
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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Tavares L, Monedeiro F, Bordin DM, De Martinis BS. Investigation of Ayahuasca β-Carboline Alkaloids and Tryptamine in Sweat Samples from Religious Community Participants by GC-MS. J Anal Toxicol 2020; 44:601-609. [PMID: 32103256 DOI: 10.1093/jat/bkz116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a hallucinogenic beverage used in religious rituals in South America, has become a global phenomenon. Its main active components are the β-carbolines alkaloids, harmine (HRM) and harmaline (HRL), as well as the potent hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT). Despite its rising consumption, information regarding possible clinical applications and toxicological effects of ayahuasca is still limited. This study presents the first investigation of the use of sweat for the determination of DMT, HRM and HRL in ayahuasca users during a religious ritual. Sweat is an alternative matrix with advantages over many conventional biological samples, mainly because the collection procedure is non-invasive, easy and simple and samples can be collected without disturbing the religious ritual. In the study, solid-phase extraction was performed under basic conditions. Linearity was observed ranging from 20 to 1500 ng/patch with coefficients of determination (R2) higher than 0.99 for all analytes. The results indicated high selectivity for all investigated analytes, with extraction efficiency exceeding 70%, accuracy ranging from 87.5 to 102.4%, intra-assay precision of 1.85-9.44% and inter-assay precision between 3.34 and 9.85%. The limits of detection were 15 ng/patch for HRM and HRL and 10 ng/patch for DMT. The sweat proved to be a viable option to monitor ayahuasca use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidiane Tavares
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 3900 Av. Bandeirantes, SP 14050-140, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Monedeiro
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 3900 Av. Bandeirantes, SP 14050-140, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Dayanne Mozaner Bordin
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 3900 Av. Bandeirantes, SP 14050-140, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, NSW 2007, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Bruno Spinosa De Martinis
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Sciences and Letters of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 3900 Av. Bandeirantes, SP 14050-140, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Biodiversity of β-Carboline Profile of Banisteriopsis caapi and Ayahuasca, a Plant and a Brew with Neuropharmacological Potential. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9070870. [PMID: 32660098 PMCID: PMC7411993 DOI: 10.3390/plants9070870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive infusion with a large pharmacological application normally prepared with Banisteriopsis caapi, which contains the monoamine oxidase inhibitors β-carbolines, and Psichotria virids, which contains the serotonin receptor agonist N,N dimethyltryptamine (DMT). The objectives of this study were to investigate the chemical profile of B. caapi and of ayahuasca collected in various Brazilian regions. In total, 176 plant lianas, of which 159 B.caapi and 33 ayahuasca samples were analyzed. Dried liana samples were powdered, extracted with methanol, diluted, and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. Ayahuasca samples were diluted and analyzed. Mean concentrations in B. caapi were 4.79 mg/g harmine, 0.451 mg/g harmaline, and 2.18 mg/g tetrahydroharmine (THH), with a high variability among the samples (RSD from 78.9 to 170%). Native B. caapi samples showed significantly higher harmine concentrations than cultivated ones, and samples from the Federal District/Goiás had higher THH content than those collected in the State of Acre. The other Malpighiaceae samples did not contain β-carbolines, except for one D. pubipetala sample. Concentrations in ayahuasca samples ranged from 0.109 to 7.11 mg/mL harmine, 0.012 to 0.945 mg/mL harmaline, 0.09 to 3.05 mg/mL THH, and 0.10 to 3.12 mg/mL DMT. The analysis of paired ayahuasca/B. caapi confirmed that harmine is reduced to harmaline and to THH during the brew preparation. This is the largest study conducted with Malpighiaceae samples and showed a large variability in the main β-carbolines present in B. caapi. This biodiversity is a challenge for standardization of the material used in ethnopharmacological studies of B.caapi and ayahuasca.
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Estrella-Parra EA, Almanza-Pérez JC, Alarcón-Aguilar FJ. Ayahuasca: Uses, Phytochemical and Biological Activities. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2019; 9:251-265. [PMID: 31134518 PMCID: PMC6646606 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-019-0210-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Ayahuasca (caapi, yajé), is a psychoactive brew from the Amazon Basin region of South America traditionally considered a "master plant." It is prepared as a decoction from Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis, which it is thought that it stimulates creative thinking and visual creativity. Native healers of the Orinoco and Amazon basins have used traditionally ayahuasca as a healing tool for multiple purposes, particularly to treat psychological disorders in the patients, with some beneficial effects experimentally and clinically validated. Recently, several syncretic religions, as the "União de Vegetal" (UDV) group in Brazil, have been spread around the world. The use of ayahuasca has been popularized by internet and smart-shops, bringing the psychoactive substance to new highs, emerging new "ayahuasqueros." Ayahuasca has alkaloids as β-carbolines and dimethyltryptamines, which inhibit the monoamine oxidase and active the 5-HT2A (5-hydroxytryptamine) receptor, respectively, resulting in hallucinations in the users. Ayahuasca induces a psychedelic change in the anteroposterior coupling of the electrophysiological brain oscillations in humans. Traditional ayahuasca beverage is generating pharmacological, commercial and spiritual interest among the scientific community, government people, and different populations worldwide. The goal of this article is to report about the uses, chemistry and biological activities of ayahuasca.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Antonio Estrella-Parra
- Laboratorio de Farmacología. Dpto. Ciencias de la Salud. Div. C.B.S. Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa. Av. San Rafael Atlixco No. 186, Col. Vicentina, 09340, Mexico CDMX, Mexico
- Laboratorio de Fitoquímica, Laboratorio de Farmacognosia, Laboratorio de Fisiología Vegetal, Unidad UBIPRO, FES-Iztacala, UNAM, Tlalnepantla de Baz, 54090, Mexico CDMX, Mexico
| | - Julio Cesar Almanza-Pérez
- Laboratorio de Farmacología. Dpto. Ciencias de la Salud. Div. C.B.S. Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa. Av. San Rafael Atlixco No. 186, Col. Vicentina, 09340, Mexico CDMX, Mexico
| | - Francisco Javier Alarcón-Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Farmacología. Dpto. Ciencias de la Salud. Div. C.B.S. Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Unidad Iztapalapa. Av. San Rafael Atlixco No. 186, Col. Vicentina, 09340, Mexico CDMX, Mexico.
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Hamill J, Hallak J, Dursun SM, Baker G. Ayahuasca: Psychological and Physiologic Effects, Pharmacology and Potential Uses in Addiction and Mental Illness. Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:108-128. [PMID: 29366418 PMCID: PMC6343205 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180125095902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ayahuasca, a traditional Amazonian decoction with psychoactive properties, is made from bark of the Banisteriopsis caapi vine (containing beta-carboline alkaloids) and leaves of the Psychotria viridis bush (supplying the hallucinogen N,N-dimethyltryptamine, DMT). Originally used by indigenous shamans for the purposes of spirit communi-cation, magical experiences, healing, and religious rituals across several South American countries, ayahuasca has been in-corporated into folk medicine and spiritual healing, and several Brazilian churches use it routinely to foster a spiritual experi-ence. More recently, it is being used in Europe and North America, not only for religious or healing reasons, but also for rec-reation. Objective: To review ayahuasca’s behavioral effects, possible adverse effects, proposed mechanisms of action and potential clinical uses in mental illness. Method: We searched Medline, in English, using the terms ayahuasca, dimethyltryptamine, Banisteriopsis caapi, and Psy-chotria viridis and reviewed the relevant publications. Results: The following aspects of ayahuasca are summarized: Political and legal factors; acute and chronic psychological ef-fects; electrophysiological studies and imaging; physiological effects; safety and adverse effects; pharmacology; potential psychiatric uses. Conclusion: Many years of shamanic wisdom have indicated potential therapeutic uses for ayahuasca, and several present day studies suggest that it may be useful for treating various psychiatric disorders and addictions. The side effect profile ap-pears to be relatively mild, but more detailed studies need to be done. Several prominent researchers believe that government regulations with regard to ayahuasca should be relaxed so that it could be provided more readily to recognized, credible re-searchers to conduct comprehensive clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Hamill
- Department of Psychiatry (Neurochemical Research Unit) and Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jaime Hallak
- Department of Psychiatry (Neurochemical Research Unit) and Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.,Department of Neurosciences and Behavior and National Institute of Science and Technology (Translational Medicine), Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Serdar M Dursun
- Department of Psychiatry (Neurochemical Research Unit) and Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Glen Baker
- Department of Psychiatry (Neurochemical Research Unit) and Neuroscience & Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Uhl KL, Schultz CR, Geerts D, Bachmann AS. Harmine, a dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase (DYRK) inhibitor induces caspase-mediated apoptosis in neuroblastoma. Cancer Cell Int 2018; 18:82. [PMID: 29977157 PMCID: PMC5992763 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-018-0574-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroblastoma (NB) is an early childhood malignancy that arises from the developing sympathetic nervous system. Harmine is a tricyclic β-carboline alkaloid isolated from the harmal plant that exhibits both cytostatic and cytotoxic effects. Harmine is capable of blocking the activities of dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase (DYRK) family proteins and mitogen-activated protein kinase. These kinases promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis. Methods Four human NB cell lines were used to study the effects of harmine treatment: SKNBE and KELLY (MYCN-amplified) as well as SKNAS and SKNFI (MYCN non-amplified). The anti-cancer properties of harmine were examined by RealTime-Glo MT cell viability assays, caspase activity assays, PARP cleavage using Western blot analysis, and flow cytometry-based Annexin V detection. A molecular interaction model of harmine bound to the DYRK2 family kinase was generated by computational docking using X-ray structures. NB tumors from human patients were profiled for DYRK mRNA expression patterns and clinical correlations using the R2 platform. Results The IC50 values for harmine after 72 h treatment were 169.6, 170.8, and 791.7 μM for SKNBE, KELLY, and SKNFI, respectively. Exposure of these NB cell lines to 100 μM of harmine resulted in caspase-3/7 and caspase-9 activation as well as caspase-mediated PARP cleavage and Annexin V-positive stained cells, as early as 24 h after treatment, clearly suggesting apoptosis induction, especially in MYCN-amplified cell lines. Elevated DYRK2 mRNA levels correlated with poor prognosis in a large cohort of NB tumors. Conclusion Harmine is a known inhibitor of DYRK family kinases. It can induce apoptosis in NB cell lines, which led us to investigate the clinical correlations of DYRK family gene expression in NB tumors. The patient results support our hypothesis that DYRK inhibition by harmine and the subsequent triggering of caspase-mediated apoptosis might present a novel approach to NB therapy. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12935-018-0574-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L Uhl
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Chad R Schultz
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
| | - Dirk Geerts
- 2Department of Medical Biology, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - André S Bachmann
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Avenue NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 USA
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da Motta LG, de Morais JA, Tavares ACA, Vianna LMS, Mortari MR, Amorim RFB, Carvalho RR, Paumgartten FJR, Pic-Taylor A, Caldas ED. Maternal and developmental toxicity of the hallucinogenic plant-based beverage ayahuasca in rats. Reprod Toxicol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2018.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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16
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Correa-Netto NF, Coelho LS, Galfano GS, Nishide F, Tamura F, Shimizu MK, Santos JG, Linardi A. Chronic intermittent exposure to ayahuasca during aging does not affect memory in mice. Braz J Med Biol Res 2017; 50:e6037. [PMID: 28591380 PMCID: PMC5463533 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20176037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Quechua term ayahuasca refers to a beverage obtained from decoctions of the liana Banisteriopsis caapi with leaves of Psychotria viridis. The ritualistic use of ayahuasca is becoming a global phenomenon, with some individuals using this beverage throughout life, including in old age. Cognitive impairment is a common manifestation during aging. There are conflicting reports on the ability of some ayahuasca compounds to exert neuroprotective or neurotoxic effects that could improve or impair learning and memory. Animal models provide a relevant and accessible means of investigating the behavioral effects of ayahuasca without the environmental conditions associated with the ritualistic use of the beverage. In this study, we investigated the influence of chronic ayahuasca exposure throughout aging on the spatial reference and habituation memories of mice. Twenty-eight male c57bl/6 mice (6 months old) received ayahuasca or water (1.5 mL/kg, orally) twice a week for 12 months and were tested in the Morris water maze (MWM), open field and elevated plus maze (EPM) tasks before and after treatment. During aging, there was significant impairment in the evocation (but not acquisition) of spatial reference memory and in habituation to the open field. There was also a decrease in locomotor activity in the open field and EPM tests, whereas the anxiety parameters were unaltered. Ayahuasca treatment did not alter any of these parameters associated with aging. These findings indicate that chronic exposure to ayahuasca during aging did not affect memory in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Correa-Netto
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - L S Coelho
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G S Galfano
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F Nishide
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F Tamura
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M K Shimizu
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - J G Santos
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A Linardi
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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17
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Correa-Netto NF, Masukawa MY, Nishide F, Galfano GS, Tamura F, Shimizo MK, Marcato MP, Santos JG, Linardi A. An ontogenic study of the behavioral effects of chronic intermittent exposure to ayahuasca in mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 50:e6036. [PMID: 28591379 PMCID: PMC5463532 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20176036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a beverage obtained from decoctions of the Banisteriopsis caapi plus Psychotria viridis. In religious contexts, ayahuasca is used by different age groups. However, little is known of the effects of ayahuasca during ontogenic development, particularly with regard to the functional characteristics of the central nervous system. Animal models are useful for studying the ontogenic effects of ayahuasca because they allow exclusion of the behavioral influence associated with the ritualistic use. We investigated the effects of exposure to ayahuasca (1.5 mL/kg, orally, twice a week) on memory and anxiety in C57BL/6 mice, with the post-natal day (PND) being used as the ontogenic criterion for classification: childhood (PND21 to PND35), adolescence (PND35 to PND63), adulthood (PND90-PND118), childhood-adolescence (PND21 to PND63), childhood-adulthood (PND21 to PND118) and adolescence-adulthood (PND35 to PND118). One day after the last ayahuasca exposure, the mice were subjected to the Morris water maze (MWM), open field and elevated plus maze tasks (EPM). Ayahuasca did not affect locomotion in the open field or open arms exploration in the EPM, but increased the risk assessment behavior in the childhood group. Ayahuasca did not cause any change in acquisition of spatial reference memory in the MWM task, but decreased the time spent on the platform quadrant during the test session in the adolescence group. These results suggest that, in mice, exposure to ayahuasca in childhood and adolescence promoted anxiety and memory impairment, respectively. However, these behavioral changes were not long-lasting since they were not observed in the childhood-adulthood and adolescence-adulthood groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- N F Correa-Netto
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M Y Masukawa
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F Nishide
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - G S Galfano
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - F Tamura
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M K Shimizo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M P Marcato
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - J G Santos
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - A Linardi
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Santa Casa de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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Reproductive effects of the psychoactive beverage ayahuasca in male Wistar rats after chronic exposure. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE FARMACOGNOSIA-BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF PHARMACOGNOSY 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bjp.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Moraes-Souza RQ, Soares TS, Carmo NOL, Damasceno DC, Campos KE, Volpato GT. Adverse effects of Croton urucurana B. exposure during rat pregnancy. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 199:328-333. [PMID: 27773799 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Croton urucurana presents several beneficial pharmacological properties. In Brazil, women who intend to interrupt the pregnancy indiscriminately use extracts of this plant as an abortifacient agent. AIM OF STUDY To evaluated the effect of aqueous extract of Croton urucurana latex on the maternal-fetal repercussions in rats. METHODS Pregnant rats were randomly distributed into four experimental groups: Control=treated with water (vehicle); Treated 200=treated with a dose 200mg/kg; Treated 400=dose 400mg/kg and; and Treated 800=dose 800mg/kg. The rats were orally treated by gavage with Croton urucurana or vehicle (water) during whole pregnancy. At term of pregnancy, all rats were killed to obtain maternal blood and tissues samples and fetal weight and anomaly analyses. RESULTS C. urucurana treatment (Treated 400 and Treated 800) showed elevated liver enzymatic activities, reduced fetal body weight and placental efficiency. The Treated 800 group presented increased maternal total protein and cholesterol levels, and heart relative weight. All treated groups presented reduced maternal body weight and food intake, and increased pre-implantation loss rate compared to those of Control group. In addition, the treatment contributed to increased skeletal and visceral anomalies with higher doses. CONCLUSION Croton urucurana treatment caused maternal toxicity, which contributed for impairment embryo fetal development. These results showed that the indiscriminate use of plants during pregnancy should be avoided to prevent potential risk on maternal health as well as their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaianne Queiroz Moraes-Souza
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Thaigra Sousa Soares
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Nágilla Orleanne Lima Carmo
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | - Débora Cristina Damasceno
- Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Course of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology, Univ Estadual Paulista_Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Kleber Eduardo Campos
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil; Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Course of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology, Univ Estadual Paulista_Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Tadeu Volpato
- Laboratory of System Physiology and Reproductive Toxicology, Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), Barra do Garças, Mato Grosso, Brazil; Laboratory of Experimental Research on Gynecology and Obstetrics, Graduate Course of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Mastology, Univ Estadual Paulista_Unesp, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Dos Santos RG, Balthazar FM, Bouso JC, Hallak JE. The current state of research on ayahuasca: A systematic review of human studies assessing psychiatric symptoms, neuropsychological functioning, and neuroimaging. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:1230-1247. [PMID: 27287824 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116652578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE In recent decades, the use of ayahuasca (AYA) - a β-carboline- and dimethyltryptamine-rich hallucinogenic botanical preparation traditionally used by Northwestern Amazonian tribes for ritual and therapeutic purposes - has spread from South America to Europe and the USA, raising concerns about its possible toxicity and hopes of its therapeutic potential. Thus, it is important to analyze the acute, subacute, and long-term effects of AYA to assess its safety and toxicity. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of human studies assessing AYA effects on psychiatric symptoms, neuropsychological functioning, and neuroimaging. METHODS Papers published until 16 December 2015 were included from PubMed, LILACS and SciELO databases following a comprehensive search strategy and pre-determined set of criteria for article selection. RESULTS The review included 28 full-text articles. Acute AYA administration was well tolerated, increased introspection and positive mood, altered visual perceptions, activated frontal and paralimbic regions and decreased default mode network activity. It also improved planning and inhibitory control and impaired working memory, and showed antidepressive and antiaddictive potentials. Long-term AYA use was associated with increased cortical thickness of the anterior cingulate cortex and cortical thinning of the posterior cingulate cortex, which was inversely correlated to age of onset, intensity of prior AYA use, and spirituality. Subacute and long-term AYA use was not associated with increased psychopathology or cognitive deficits, being associated with enhanced mood and cognition, increased spirituality, and reduced impulsivity. CONCLUSIONS Acute, subacute, and long-term AYA use seems to have low toxicity. Preliminary studies about potential therapeutic effects of AYA need replication due to their methodological limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael G Dos Santos
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil .,International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research and Service, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fermanda M Balthazar
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José C Bouso
- International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research and Service, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaime Ec Hallak
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology - Translational Medicine, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
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Apud I, Romaní O. Medicine, religion and ayahuasca in Catalonia. Considering ayahuasca networks from a medical anthropology perspective. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2016; 39:28-36. [PMID: 27768991 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ayahuasca is a psychoactive beverage from the Amazon, traditionally used by indigenous and mestizo populations in the region. Widespread international use of the beverage began in the 1990s in both secular contexts and religious/spiritual networks. This article offers an analysis of these networks as health care systems in general and for the case of Spain and specifically Catalonia, describing the emergence and characteristics of their groups, and the therapeutic itineraries of some participants. The medical anthropology perspective we take enables us to reflect on the relationship between medicine and religion, and problematize the tensions between medicalization and medical pluralism. Closely linked to the process of medicalization, we also analyze prohibitionist drug policies and their tensions and conflicts with the use of ayahuasca in ritual and 'health care' contexts. The paper ends with a reflection on the problem of ayahuasca as 'medicine', since the connection between religion and medicine is a very difficult one to separate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Apud
- Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Uruguay; National System of Researchers, National Agency of Research & Innovation (ANII), Uruguay; Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Universitat Rovira i Virgili. Campus Catalunya URV, Avda. Catalunya, 35, 43005 Tarragona, Spain.
| | - Oriol Romaní
- Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Campus Catalunya URV, Avda. Catalunya, 35, 43005 Tarragona, Spain
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Pic-Taylor A, da Motta LG, de Morais JA, Junior WM, Santos ADFA, Campos LA, Mortari MR, von Zuben MV, Caldas ED. Behavioural and neurotoxic effects of ayahuasca infusion (Banisteriopsis caapi and Psychotria viridis) in female Wistar rat. Behav Processes 2015; 118:102-10. [PMID: 26049017 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2015.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Ayahuasca, a psychoactive beverage used by indigenous and religious groups, is generally prepared by the coction of Psychotria viridis and Banisteriopsis caapi plants containing N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) and β-carboline alkaloids, respectively. To investigate the acute toxicity of ayahuasca, the infusion was administered by gavage to female Wistar rats at doses of 30X and 50X the dose taken during a religious ritual, and the animals observed for 14 days. Behavioural functions were investigated one hour after dosing at 15X and 30X using the open field, elevated plus maze, and forced swimming tests. Neuronal activation (c-fos marked neurons) and toxicity (Fluoro-Jade B and Nissl/Cresyl staining) were investigated in the dorsal raphe nuclei (DRN), amygdaloid nucleus, and hippocampal formation brain areas of rats treated with a 30X ayahuasca dose. The actual lethal oral dose in female Wistar rats could not be determined in this study, but was shown to be higher than the 50X (which corresponds to 15.1mg/kg bw DMT). The ayahuasca and fluoxetine treated groups showed a significant decrease in locomotion in the open field and elevated plus-maze tests compared to controls. In the forced swimming test, ayahuasca treated animals swam more than controls, a behaviour that was not significant in the fluoxetine group. Treated animals showed higher neuronal activation in all brain areas involved in serotoninergic neurotransmission. Although this led to some brain injury, no permanent damage was detected. These results suggest that ayahuasca has antidepressant properties in Wistar female at high doses, an effect that should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Pic-Taylor
- Department of Genetic and Morphology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | - Luciana Gueiros da Motta
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | - Juliana Alves de Morais
- Department of Genetic and Morphology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | - Willian Melo Junior
- Department of Genetic and Morphology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Leandro Ambrósio Campos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | - Marcia Renata Mortari
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Eloisa Dutra Caldas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, DF, Brazil.
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Blainey MG. Forbidden therapies: Santo Daime, ayahuasca, and the prohibition of entheogens in Western society. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2015; 54:287-302. [PMID: 24477460 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-014-9826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Santo Daime, a Brazilian religion organized around a potent psychoactive beverage called ayahuasca, is now being practiced across Europe and North America. Deeming ayahuasca a dangerous "hallucinogen," most Western governments prosecute people who participate in Santo Daime. On the contrary, members of Santo Daime (called "daimistas") consider ayahuasca a medicinal sacrament (or "entheogen"). Empirical studies corroborate daimistas' claim that entheogens are benign and can be beneficial when employed in controlled contexts. Following from anthropology's goal of rendering different cultural logics as mutually explicable, this article intercedes in a misunderstanding between policies of prohibition and an emergent subculture of entheogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc G Blainey
- Department for the Study of Religion, University of Toronto, University College, 5 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H7, Canada,
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Guimarães dos Santos R. Safety and Side Effects of Ayahuasca in Humans—An Overview Focusing on Developmental Toxicology. J Psychoactive Drugs 2013; 45:68-78. [DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2013.763564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Determination of dimethyltryptamine and β-carbolines (ayahuasca alkaloids) in plasma samples by LC-MS/MS. Bioanalysis 2012; 4:1731-8. [PMID: 22877219 DOI: 10.4155/bio.12.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ayahuasca is a psychoactive plant beverage originally used by indigenous people throughout the Amazon Basin, long before its modern use by syncretic religious groups established in Brazil, the USA and European countries. The objective of this study was to develop a method for quantification of dimethyltryptamine and β-carbolines in human plasma samples. RESULTS The analytes were extracted by means of C18 cartridges and injected into LC-MS/MS, operated in positive ion mode and multiple reaction monitoring. The LOQs obtained for all analytes were below 0.5 ng/ml. By using the weighted least squares linear regression, the accuracy of the analytical method was improved at the lower end of the calibration curve (from 0.5 to 100 ng/ml; r(2)> 0.98). CONCLUSION The method proved to be simple, rapid and useful to estimate administered doses for further pharmacological and toxicological investigations of ayahuasca exposure.
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Abstract
Toxicity testing of new compounds is essential for drug development process. The preclinical toxicity testing on various biological systems reveals the species-, organ- and dose- specific toxic effects of an investigational product. The toxicity of substances can be observed by (a) studying the accidental exposures to a substance (b) in vitro studies using cells/ cell lines (c) in vivo exposure on experimental animals. This review mainly focuses on the various experimental animal models and methods used for toxicity testing of substances. The pre-clinical toxicity testing helps to calculate "No Observed Adverse Effect Level" which is needed to initiate the clinical evaluation of investigational products.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Parasuraman
- Department of Pharmacology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India
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dos Santos RG. Toxicity of chronic ayahuasca administration to the pregnant rat: how relevant it is regarding the human, ritual use of ayahuasca? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 89:533-5; author reply 531-2.. [DOI: 10.1002/bdrb.20272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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