CU Denver Center for Psychedelic Research: Vision, Trials, and Work in Progress

Launched in 2024, the CU Denver Center for Psychedelic Research is dedicated to improving quality of life through research and education about the effects and therapeutic mechanisms of psychedelic drugs to treat emotional, behavioral/psychiatric, and neurologic conditions, as well as their use in palliative care for late-stage cancer and chronic, debilitating diseases. The Center is also focused on assessing the public health outcomes of decriminalization of natural medicines. The results of that work, and our clinical and basic research, will inform citizens and policymakers about the positive and negative outcomes of decriminalization, and about the evolving science and applications of psychedelics among persons facing an array of psychological and medical conditions.The transdisciplinary team at the Center consists of scientists and clinicians experienced in neuroscience, psychology, psychiatry, medicine, psychoneuroimmunology, behavioral neuroendocrinology, and public policy. Our program is grounded in rigorous science, and focused on the effects of these interventions on improving the quality of human life. The Center is currently halfway through a Colorado- and New York-based team leading the largest study to date on the therapeutic use of psilocybin among cancer patients facing the end of life.