GlossaryCSTC circuit

CSTC circuit

Cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuit — a neural feedback loop connecting the orbitofrontal cortex, caudate nucleus, thalamus, and anterior cingulate cortex. Chronically hyperactive and "locked" in OCD, generating intrusive thoughts and compulsive responses. Psilocybin's proposed mechanism in OCD is normalisation of fronto-striatal connectivity within this loop — distinct from its default mode network disruption mechanism in depression.

Full Explanation

The CSTC (cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical) circuit is a neural feedback loop connecting the orbitofrontal cortex, caudate nucleus, thalamus, and anterior cingulate cortex. Chronically hyperactive and "locked" in OCD, it generates intrusive thoughts and compulsive responses. Psilocybin's proposed mechanism in OCD is normalisation of fronto-striatal connectivity within this loop — distinct from its default mode network disruption mechanism in depression.

See: OCD (/conditions/ocd).

Why It Matters

The CSTC circuit explains why OCD may respond to psilocybin through a different pathway than depression — fronto-striatal normalisation rather than DMN disruption.

Related Terms

Default Mode Network (DMN)

Back to Glossary

Explore More Terms

Psilocybin

A naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms that produces altered states of consciousness.

Psilocin

The pharmacologically active compound that psilocybin converts to in the body, responsible for psychedelic effects.

Ego Death

A temporary dissolution of the sense of self during a psychedelic experience, often described as profound and transformative.

Set and Setting

The combination of mindset (set) and environment (setting) that shapes a psychedelic experience.

Microdosing

Taking sub-perceptual doses of psilocybin on a regular schedule for subtle cognitive and emotional benefits.

Mycelium

The vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments that eventually produces mushrooms.