A single dose of lysergic acid diethylamide influences gene expression patterns within the mammalian brain [array]

We have undertaken the first comprehensive analysis of gene expression influenced by acute LSD administration in the mammalian brain to elucidate the mechanism of action of this class of drugs. We have identified a number of genes that are predicted to be involved in the processes of synaptic plasticity, glutamatergic signaling and cytoskeletal architecture. Understanding these molecular events will lead to new insights into the etiology of disorders whose behavioral symptoms resemble the temporary effects of hallucinogenic drugs, and also may ultimately result in new therapies. Four rats were administered 1.0 mg/kg LSD i.p., and four rats were simultaneously administered i.p. saline. After 90 min the animals were decapitated. The brains were removed and the prefrontal cortex was dissected. RNA was extracted from the tissue of four animals pooled per treatment group.