Evolutionary Roots of Psychedelic Molecules

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with a molecular geneticist exploring what it could look like to rethink how psychedelic medicines are sourced at a fundamental level.

Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-349/?ref=278

Jeffrey Gerst explains how his work in RNA biology and gene expression has led him to explore bioengineering as a way to produce psychedelic compounds without relying on wild harvesting or traditional chemical synthesis.

The conversation looks at how cells organize and communicate, and how those same biological principles could be used to create more sustainable and scalable systems for medicine production. Paul and Jeff also reflect on the broader implications of this shift, from environmental stewardship to the long-term integrity of the psychedelic ecosystem.

Professor Jeffrey Gerst is a molecular geneticist and Full Professor at the Weizmann Institute of Science, where he studies how cells regulate gene expression through RNA trafficking and localized protein synthesis.

His research has advanced understanding of how mRNA moves within and between cells, revealing new forms of cellular communication and potential applications in therapeutic delivery. More recently, his work has expanded into the bioengineering of psychedelic compounds, with a focus on developing sustainable, scalable, and ethical methods of production. Highlights:

• Why sourcing is becoming a central challenge in psychedelics
• Bioengineering as a scalable alternative to wild harvesting
• How RNA biology informs new approaches to medicine production
• The limits of "natural" when demand increases
• Environmental risks of large-scale psychedelic use
• How yeast and cells can produce psychedelic compounds
• Balancing biotechnology with traditional practices
• What sustainable access could look like in the future
• The evolving relationship between science and psychedelics

Episode Links:

• Prof. Jeffrey Gerst - Academic Profile (Weizmann Institute)
• Prof. Jeffrey Gerst - Metaformity (Project / Initiative)

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