Neo-Mesc

**Neo-Mesc**, short for **Neo-Mescaline**, is a marketed class of psychotropic drug that descends from genetically modified cacti designed to produce heightened amounts of 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine; this is done in different levels of mescaline, as according to novel strains.

## History

Sometime during the early era of the Coalition, genetic engineers manipulated the DNA of cacti species native to Earth, such as the Peyote cactus (*Lophophora williamsii*) or San Pedro cactus (*Echinopsis pachanoi*). Through advanced genetic modification techniques, they introduce a combination of genes responsible for the enhanced production of mescaline. Initially approached through scientific curiosity, the ability and method of this genetic change quickly spread to underground geneticists that levied it to breach into the narcotics world with a new, potent product.

## Cultivation and use

The key to Neo-Mesc's potency lies in the amplification of the biosynthesis pathway responsible for mescaline's presence. This pathway is naturally found in some Earth cacti, but is further augmented in the genetically modified strains for heightened mescaline production. Enhanced enzymes, gene expression, and metabolic processes drive the accumulation of 3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine within the cactus tissues.

After the initial genetic modifications, selective breeding is carried out to isolate the most potent strains of Neo-Mesc. This process involves choosing individual plants with the highest mescaline content and breeding them to create successive generations that consistently produce elevated levels of the compound. Some strains have been genetically edited to even include cannabinoids or other psychoactive agents to increase psychedelia. Neo-Mesc cacti are cultivated in controlled environments, often in hydroponic farms or specialized greenhouses, hidden from the authorities. These facilities maintain precise environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, light intensity, and nutrient composition, to maximize growth and mescaline production.

Once the Neo-Mesc cacti reach maturity, they are carefully harvested. The extracted mescaline is typically found in the cactus's flesh, especially in the stem. Chemical extraction techniques are employed to isolate the pure mescaline compound from the plant material.

Neo-Mesc is renowned for delivering a unique and intense psychedelic experience, especially when mixed with other psychotropic agents. When consumed, it can induce altered perceptions of reality, vivid hallucinations, and profound spiritual or introspective journeys. The enhanced potency of Neo-Mesc makes it highly sought after in the underground drug trade, often being used as an escape from the harsh realities of the world.

## Effects

Beyond the standard effects of mescaline, its extremely high dosage of the chemical can usually lead to side effects such as anxiety, headaches, intense nausea, and vomiting. Strains that combine other psychotropic agents, such as cannabinoids, can further intensify the experiences.

## Legality

Mescaline in general is not officially banned on the Coalition level, but most member nations have made Neo-Mesc and its strains illegal. Exceptions include the Stellar Republic of New Rome, who strictly control its medicinal and recreational uses.