By Clinical Research News Team 

September 16, 2025 | Psilocybin—the psychoactive compound found in “magic mushrooms”—has often been viewed in a negative light due to the reputation of psychedelics, even among experts. But new research suggests that the compound could have a role in slowing the aging process. 

Kosuke Kato, Ph.D., assistant professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and Louise Hecker, Ph.D., formerly at Emory University, explored psilocybin’s effects in a study that was published in npj Aging (DOI: 10.1038/s41514-025-00244-x). Their findings indicated that psilocybin’s metabolite, psilocin, can extend cellular lifespan and increase survival in aged mice subjects.  

Other findings showed that psilocybin extended the lifespan of human skin and lung cells in culture by more than 50%. In the aged mice, they had a 30% increase of survival and also showed healthier physical features: improved fur quality, fewer white hairs, and even hair regrowth.  

The overall improved physical appearance of the treated mice was particularly surprising, Kato notes, pointing to the possibility that psilocybin enhances not just lifespan but healthspan—the years lived in good health. 

While the precise mechanisms remain unclear, the researchers suspect psilocybin’s systemic effects are tied to serotonin receptors, which are found throughout the body in tissues such as the skin, liver, heart, and lungs—not just in the brain. 

If psilocybin is to be used for clinical purposes in the future, Kato suggests that a dosing schedule for people might involve a treatment every one or two years at relatively low doses, given the compound’s long-lasting biological effects. However, determining the optimal and safe dose for humans remains something to be determined. 

However, there are still scientific and social hurdles. Psilocybin is classified as a controlled substance in the U.S., without an accepted medical use. But the political environment is shifting. Several psilocybin-based therapies are already in phase 3 trials for psychiatric disorders, and federal officials have signaled interest in seeing psychedelic therapies integrated into clinical practice soon. Texas announced a $50 million investment toward psychedelic research, including work on ibogaine for post-traumatic stress disorder. 

For now, Kato is cautious but optimistic. “We are just beginning to understand how psilocybin may impact aging biology,” he says. “If confirmed, this could offer a new approach for improving quality of life and extending healthspan.” 

To read the full story written by Deborah Borfitz, visit Bio-IT World.