A recent study published in Advanced Science has shed light on the potential of LSD in helping autistic dogs connect with their human companions. The research, which focused on the phenomenon of “interbrain activity coupling,” has provided compelling evidence of how interactions between humans and dogs can lead to a synchronization of brainwaves. This is a phenomenon that has primarily been observed in human-to-human interactions.
The study involved 10 beagles with a genetic mutation associated with autism, known as Shank3, and their respective human owners. During the experiment, both dogs and humans wore EEG caps to measure their brain activity while interacting. The study found that when humans and dogs engaged in eye contact or petting, their brainwaves aligned, particularly in areas related to attention and social behavior.
However, this synchronization didn’t occur in all the dogs. This led researchers to explore the effects of LSD on the dogs. After administering a single dose of LSD to the dogs, they exhibited improved synchronization of brainwaves with their human companions, as well as an increase in joint attention – a critical behavior in social interactions.
Dr. Yong Q. Zhang, one of the study’s authors, highlighted the significant implications of these findings: “One is that the disrupted inter-brain synchronization might be used as a biomarker for autism, and the other is LSD or its derivatives might ameliorate the social symptoms of autism.”
This study offers a promising avenue for future research exploring the therapeutic potential of LSD in treating autism in dogs and potentially in humans. It opens up new possibilities for understanding and improving the lives of individuals with autism through novel therapeutic approaches.
