Researchers are exploring an unusual approach to one of chemotherapy’s painful side effects: using psilocybin, the psychoactive compound found in magic mushrooms, before cancer treatment. A new study published in *Science* examined whether psilocybin could help prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, a condition that can cause pain, tingling, numbness and increased sensitivity in the hands and feet. The research was conducted primarily in mice, along with experiments involving human nerve and tissue samples. The findings suggest that administering psilocybin before chemotherapy may protect sensory nerves from damage. Researchers believe the compound may help preserve the movement of mitochondria within nerve cells, potentially protecting the nerves from the effects of certain chemotherapy drugs. However, the findings are still at the preclinical stage. Human clinical trials have not yet established whether psilocybin is safe or effective for preventing chemotherapy-related nerve damage in patients. Further research will be needed before the approach can be considered as a potential treatment.