Exploring DMT: Endogenous role and therapeutic potential
Exploring DMT: Endogenous role and therapeutic potential
StatusVoR
Alternative title
Authors
Schimmelpfennig, Jakub
Jankowiak-Siuda, Kamila
Monograph
Monograph (alternative title)
Date
2025-05-01
Publisher
Journal title
Neuropharmacology
Issue
Volume
268
Pages
Pages
1-18
ISSN
0028-3908
ISSN of series
Access date
2025-05-01
Abstract PL
Abstract EN
N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a naturally occurring amine and psychedelic compound, found in plants, animals, and humans. While initial studies reported only trace amounts of DMT in mammalian brains, recent findings have identified alternative methylation pathways and DMT levels comparable to classical neurotransmitters in rodent brains, calling for a re-evaluation of its biological role and exploration of this inconsistency. This study evaluated DMT's biosynthetic pathways, focusing on indolethylamine N-methyltransferase (INMT) and its isoforms, and possible regulatory mechanisms, including alternative routes of synthesis and how physiological conditions, such as stress and hypoxia influence DMT levels. This review considers the impact of endogenous regulatory factors on DMT synthesis and degradation, particularly under conditions affecting monoamine oxidase (MAO) efficiency and activity. We also examined DMT's potential roles in various physiological processes, including neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, mitochondrial homeostasis, immunomodulation, and protection against hypoxia and oxidative stress. DMT's lipophilic properties allow it to cross cell membranes and activate intracellular 5-HT2A receptors, contributing to its role in neuroplasticity. This suggests DMT may act as an endogenous ligand for intracellular receptors, highlighting its broader biological significance beyond traditional receptor pathways. The widespread evolutionary presence of DMT's biosynthetic pathways across diverse species suggests it may play essential roles in various developmental stages and cellular adaptation to environmental challenges, highlighting the neurobiological significance of DMT and its potential clinical applications. We propose further research to explore the role of endogenous DMT, particularly as a potential neurotransmitter.
Abstract other
Keywords PL
Keywords EN
DMT
Neuroplasticity
Neuroprotection
Anti-inflammation
Hypoxia
INMT
Psychedelics
Neuroplasticity
Neuroprotection
Anti-inflammation
Hypoxia
INMT
Psychedelics
Keywords other
Exhibition title
Place of exhibition (institution)
Exhibition curator
Type
License type
Funder
Time range from
Time range to
Contact person name
Related publication
Related publication
Grant/project name
Collections
Views
2Acquisition Date9.05.2025
Downloads
0Acquisition Date20.10.2022
Altmetrics©
Dimensions
Google Scholar
