The Pre-Texts arts-literacy intervention has demonstrated effectiveness for reducing depression and anxiety symptoms, and raising cognitive agility, though the biological mechanisms remain largely unexplored. This single-arm pilot study investigated the impact of Pre-Texts training on salivary metabolite profiles in adults undergoing facilitator training. Results demonstrated significant and sustained increases in metabolites linked to glutamate signaling and cellular metabolism, with decreases in C3 propionylcarnitine versus baseline. These neurobiochemical changes were present at follow-up, suggesting sustained effects on neurotransmission, cellular energetics, neuroplasticity, cognitive flexibility, and stress response regulation. The study establishes foundations for expanded research on the biological mechanisms of arts-based interventions.
