John McCorvy

John D. McCorvy is a neuropharmacologist whose work focuses on the molecular pharmacology and structural biology of serotonin 5‑HT2A receptors and their role in the actions of psychedelic compounds. He has contributed to high‑impact efforts to resolve the crystal structure of an LSD‑bound human serotonin receptor and to map signalling pathways downstream of 5‑HT2A that underpin psychedelic potential. McCorvy’s research integrates computational docking, receptor pharmacology and cellular assays to dissect ligand–receptor interactions and biased signalling.

His publications and preclinical studies span bespoke virtual library docking for discovery of 5‑HT2A agonists, mechanistic identification of signalling cascades responsible for psychedelic effects, demonstration that psychedelics can promote neuroplasticity via intracellular 5‑HT2A receptor activation, and the design of non‑hallucinogenic LSD analogues with potential therapeutic benefit for mood disorders. Collectively, his work informs rational design of next‑generation serotonergic therapeutics and advances understanding of how specific receptor conformations and signalling profiles translate to clinical and behavioural outcomes.