Recent study in Molecular Psychiatry finds potential therapeutic superiority of psilocybin mushroom extract over synthetic psilocybin in psychiatric treatment.

Mushroom extract showed heightened increases in synaptic protein levels essential for brain plasticity, not matched by synthetic version.

Study indicates unique metabolic changes in the brain from mushroom extract, suggesting a possible 'entourage effect' from multiple components.

No significant difference observed in immediate behavioral responses between mushroom and synthetic treatments in mice.

Researchers call for more human studies to confirm findings and understand the additional components in mushroom extract.

Ultimate research goal is to leverage findings for developing improved treatments for psychiatric disorders.