The Effect of <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> on Spatial Memory and BDNF Expression in Male Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress

Psilocybin-containing mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, drastically affect mental processing, cognitive functioning, and the mood state. In the present study, we investigated the effect of the <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> extract on spatial memory and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in rats exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). The duration of CUMS was 4 weeks. Spatial learning and memory were measured using the Morris water maze apparatus. The <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> extract was intraperitoneally injected (20 mg/kg) in different time periods: 5 min before training, 24 h before training, 48 h before training, 5 min after training, and 5 min before the probe test. Results showed that CUMS impaired spatial learning and memory, and decreased BDNF in the hippocampus. <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> (24 and 48 h before training) restored spatial learning, while (48 h before training) restored spatial memory impairment in CUMS rats. <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> (24 and 48 h before training) increased BDNF in CUMS rats. <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> administrations (expect 48 h before training) impaired spatial learning and memory and decreased BDNF levels in controls. In conclusion, we suggested that <i>Psilocybe cubensis</i> may be beneficial for the improvement of memory deficits induced by CUMS, while the time of injection seems to be an important factor in its final effect.