The Optispan Podcast with Matt Kaeberlein

Magic Mushrooms: The Next Anti-Aging Drug?

Sep 4, 2025
Dive into the fascinating potential of psilocybin as a longevity booster! Recent research reveals it may extend lifespan in mice, leading to a critical look at how this compound interacts with the aging process. Discover the science behind serotonin, the intriguing 'Psilocybin Telomere Hypothesis,' and explore possible biological mechanisms at play. The discussion is packed with insights on both the strengths and weaknesses of current studies, opening up exciting questions for future research.
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INSIGHT

Psychedelics Are Becoming A Longevity Topic

  • Interest in psychedelics and longevity is growing beyond mental health effects.
  • Early signals suggest possible benefits for age-related diseases and lifespan regulation.
INSIGHT

Psilocybin Acts Like A Long-Lasting Serotonin Mimic

  • Psilocybin is a long-acting, non-selective serotonergic agonist converted to psilocin in vivo.
  • Psilocin sticks to multiple 5-HT receptors, particularly 5-HT2A, causing hallucinogenic effects.
INSIGHT

Hallucinations And Longevity May Use Different Receptors

  • Hallucinogenic effects likely come from 5-HT2A receptor activation.
  • Longevity or disease benefits might use different receptors or pathways than those causing hallucinations.
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