Psilocybin alters visual contextual computations

Nat Commun. 2025 Nov 21;16(1):10271. doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-65150-y.

Abstract

Psilocybin alters perception and brain dynamics. Here, we investigate the effects of psilocybin using psychophysics, ultra-high field functional MRI, and computational modeling. We find that psilocybin alters contextual perception in the Ebbinghaus illusion, as well as contextual modulation in cortical responses to visual stimuli. We propose a computational model capable of capturing and linking these changes. Leveraging vision as a beachhead, our findings highlight the alteration of contextual computations as a potential general mechanism underlying psychedelic action.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain* / diagnostic imaging
  • Brain* / drug effects
  • Brain* / physiology
  • Computer Simulation
  • Female
  • Hallucinogens* / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Illusions / drug effects
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Photic Stimulation
  • Psilocybin* / pharmacology
  • Psychophysics
  • Visual Perception* / drug effects
  • Visual Perception* / physiology
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Psilocybin
  • Hallucinogens