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Scientists have uncovered potential breakthroughs in the treatment of depression and anxiety using a compound derived from the secretions of Colorado river toads, known for their hallucinogenic properties.

Colorado river toads, scientifically named Incilius alvarius, release a hallucinogenic compound similar to DMT (dimethyltryptamine) when threatened, which has drawn interest for its potential medicinal benefits.

DMT, short for dimethyltryptamine, shares structural and experiential similarities with psilocybin, the psychoactive component found in "magic mushrooms." Inhabiting the areas surrounding the Sonoran desert across Arizona, California and Mexico, Colorado River toads attract people drawn to the euphoric effects of the substance, who may opt to either directly ingest the toads or extract their venom, subsequently drying and smoking it.

Mount Sinai Hospital researchers in New York embarked on a study to explore the potential therapeutic advantages of toad secretions. While acknowledging the efficacy of psychedelics such as psilocybin in alleviating depression in certain individuals, the precise mechanism underlying this compound's therapeutic effects remains elusive. Nonetheless, evidence suggests its interaction with serotonin receptors and subsequent modulation of neural circuit activity within the brain.

After making chemical adjustments to the toad-derived compound to exclusively target the 5-HT1A receptors, effectively nullifying its hallucinogenic properties, researchers administered it to mice exhibiting symptoms of stress and depression, NewScientist reported.

Their observations revealed that mice treated with the compound displayed increased consumption of palatable sugar water and heightened social interaction with peers-both indicative of reduced levels of anxiety and depression. These findings parallel outcomes observed in individuals undergoing LSD or psilocybin therapies.

"Frankly, that's what we hope to see," remarked Audrey Warren of Mount Sinai Hospital.

Given the analogous receptors present in human brains, there exists potential for the compound to hold therapeutic value for individuals.

"It's our hope that down the line, someone could use the findings of our study to help design novel antidepressants for humans, but that's certainly a long way out," Warren emphasized.

Until then, she cautions against licking Colorado river toads or smoking the poison. Along with intense hallucinations, it can lead to anxiety, vomiting, seizures and death.