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NewsWFLA News Channel 8September 6, 2026Hillsborough

University of Texas study finds psilocybin may prevent chemotherapy-induced nerve damage

Researchers at the University of Texas have identified that psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, may prevent peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The study, published in Science, suggests the compound protects nerves from injury before damage occurs by modulating the peripheral nervous system.

medical researchcancer treatmentpsilocybinneurology
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Why It Matters

affects approximately two-thirds of chemotherapy patients, causing chronic pain and numbness, and currently has no effective preventative treatment.

Key Facts

  • Researchers at the University of Texas found that psilocybin may prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • Peripheral neuropathy affects approximately two-thirds of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.
  • The study was conducted using preclinical models involving mice.
  • The mechanism identified involves psilocybin acting as a direct modulator of the peripheral nervous system through serotonin signaling.
  • There are currently no effective treatments available to prevent chemotherapy-induced nerve injury.
  • The study suggests psilocybin protects nerves by delivering energy and preventing damage before it becomes persistent.
  • The findings were published in the journal Science.

Who's Mentioned

personPatrick Dougherty“Researcher at the University of Texas.”otherScience“The journal where the study was published.”personMoran Amit“Researcher at the University of Texas.”organizationUniversity of Texas“The institution where the research was conducted.”