Speaker Bio
Morten Lietz is currently pursuing his Ph.D., focusing on LSD and neuroplasticity across different ages, at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland. Additional, he serves as speaker coordinator for ALPS (AwarenessLecturesOnPsychedelicScience), a Swiss psychedelic non-profit, which organizes Scientific Conferences. Before that, he played a key role in initiating a research program at the University of Groningen, that combines neuroplasticity enhancing agents and neuromodulatory treatments for improved outcomes. Another notable achievement included his co-organizing of the first two editions of the Summer School on Psychedelic Research with Dr. Breeksema.
ICPR 2024 Abstract
Psilocybin-Assited Neurofeedback: A Proof of Principle study of applied neuroplasticity enhancement therapies
Theoretical Background and Rationale:
Executive function deficits are a common challenge in various psychiatric disorders. Electroencephalogram (EEG) studies investigating the neuronal underpinnings of these deficits have highlighted Frontal-Midline Theta (FM Theta) oscillations as a key target. EEG-based Neurofeedback, with a specific focus on FM Theta, has shown promise in mitigating these deficits. However, the effectiveness of this training is often constrained by the significant time and effort required. Increasing neuroplasticity via psychedelics could optimize this protocol, reducing the amount of training sessions needed. Hence, this study examines the integration of psilocybin, a potential neuroplasticity agent, with neurofeedback to potentially improve cognitive functions.
Research Question and Hypothesis:
Does psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback improve executive functions in an accelerated Neurofeedback protocol? We hypothesize that this approach will significantly enhance self-regulatory frontal-midline theta activity and executive functions.
Methods and Analysis:
37 participants were divided into an experimental group, receiving three microdoses and three psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback sessions, and a passive control group. Physiological data on FM Theta regulation, as well as objective (task-based) and subjective (everyday-live-report-based) measures of executive functions were investigated.
Main Findings:
(1) Small effect on FM Theta upregulation already after three training-sessions.
(2) Significant self-reported enhancements in daily life executive functions.
(3) No improvements on objectively measured executive function tasks
Conclusion:
Psilocybin-assisted neurofeedback shows potential as a transdiagnostic approach to enhance executive functions in psychiatric disorders, suggesting a synergistic effect of pharmacology and neurofeedback on neuroplasticity. Further research is needed to optimize treatment strategies, reinforcing the innovative and feasible nature of this intervention.