Fronto-striatal connectivity
Functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and the striatum. Abnormally elevated in OCD, contributing to the locked feedback loop of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. The Yale Phase 2 OCD trial (NCT05546658) uses fMRI to measure whether psilocybin normalises fronto-striatal connectivity at 48 hours post-dosing — providing the first neural biomarker evidence for psilocybin's mechanism in OCD.
Full Explanation
Fronto-striatal connectivity is the functional connectivity between the prefrontal cortex and the striatum. Abnormally elevated in OCD, it contributes to the locked feedback loop of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. The Yale Phase 2 OCD trial (NCT05546658) uses fMRI to measure whether psilocybin normalises fronto-striatal connectivity at 48 hours post-dosing — providing the first neural biomarker evidence for psilocybin's mechanism in OCD.
See: OCD (/conditions/ocd).
Why It Matters
Fronto-striatal connectivity is the leading neural target for understanding how psilocybin might help OCD, and is being tested directly in current trials.
Related Terms
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.