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Recent advances in neural mechanism of general anesthesia induced unconsciousness: insights from optogenetics and chemogenetics

Authors :
Hui Gao
Jingyi Wang
Rui Zhang
Tao Luo
Source :
Frontiers in Pharmacology, Vol 15 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Frontiers Media S.A., 2024.

Abstract

For over 170 years, general anesthesia has played a crucial role in clinical practice, yet a comprehensive understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the induction of unconsciousness by general anesthetics remains elusive. Ongoing research into these mechanisms primarily centers around the brain nuclei and neural circuits associated with sleep-wake. In this context, two sophisticated methodologies, optogenetics and chemogenetics, have emerged as vital tools for recording and modulating the activity of specific neuronal populations or circuits within distinct brain regions. Recent advancements have successfully employed these techniques to investigate the impact of general anesthesia on various brain nuclei and neural pathways. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the use of optogenetic and chemogenetic methodologies in studying the effects of general anesthesia on specific brain nuclei and pathways. Additionally, it discusses in depth the advantages and limitations of these two methodologies, as well as the issues that must be considered for scientific research applications. By shedding light on these facets, this paper serves as a valuable reference for furthering the accurate exploration of the neural mechanisms underlying general anesthesia. It aids researchers and clinicians in effectively evaluating the applicability of these techniques in advancing scientific research and clinical practice.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
16639812
Volume :
15
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Frontiers in Pharmacology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.7af7e05f9b3484aa92b95c2afdb0553
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2024.1360864