DrClaudio Agnorelli

My research journey began at the University of Siena, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences with a thesis examining the composition of extrafloral nectar and its psychoactive effects on pollinating insects. I subsequently pursued graduate studies in the Netherlands, obtaining a Master's degree in Cognitive and Behavioural Neuroscience from the University of Groningen. As part of my master's program, I conducted research in Lyon, France, investigating the neural mechanisms underlying REM sleep. I completed my PhD in Neuropsychopharmacology at the University of Siena, where I conducted extensive neuroimaging studies on the neuroplastic and antidepressant effects of ketamine. Through electroencephalographic analysis of patients with bipolar depressive disorder, my research identified distinct neural response profiles distinguishing rapid versus delayed responders to ketamine treatment. Additionally, I investigated the neuroplastic effects of both ketamine and DMT using multimodal neuroimaging approaches (PET/MRI/EEG) in healthy participants, uncovering associations between structural and functional enduring neurolastic modifications. My current research endeavors to translate fundamental insights into the neuroplastic properties of psychedelics into concrete therapeutic applications, with particular emphasis on behavioural modifications and learning processes that enhance wellbeing and mental health outcomes.