Application of advanced preclinical models and methods in anesthetic neurotoxicity research

Cheng Wang1, Xuan Zhang1, Fang Liu1

  • 1Division of Neurotoxicology, National Center for Toxicological Research (NCTR)/FDA, Jefferson, AR, USA.

Insights

Anesthetics may impact long-term central nervous system (CNS) function. Advanced translational models, including nonhuman primates and organoids, help assess risks of infantile anesthetic exposure in children.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Toxicology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Growing concerns exist about anesthetics' potential to disrupt long-term central nervous system (CNS) function.
  • Anesthesia-related toxicology research integrates multiple scientific disciplines to understand adverse CNS effects.
  • Pre-clinical models are crucial for identifying anesthetic characteristics linked to acute or chronic CNS damage.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review advanced research models for assessing infantile anesthetic exposure.
  • To highlight the utility of translational models in understanding CNS risks associated with anesthetics.
  • To reduce uncertainty regarding the risks of postnatal anesthetic exposure in children.

Main Methods:

  • Discussion of advanced research approaches and models.
  • Focus on nonhuman primate models.
  • Exploration of neural stem cell-derived organotypic slice cultures and organs-on-chips systems.

Main Results:

  • These advanced models offer translational insights into infantile anesthetic exposure.
  • Application of these models can expedite risk assessment for pediatric populations.
  • The reviewed models aid in understanding the fundamental characteristics of anesthetics affecting the CNS.

Conclusions:

  • Advanced translational models are vital for evaluating the neurotoxic potential of anesthetics in infants.
  • Utilizing models like nonhuman primates and organoids can improve the safety assessment of anesthetic agents for children.
  • Further research employing these sophisticated models will clarify the long-term CNS risks of early-life anesthetic exposure.

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