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Updated: Jul 1, 2025

Use of a Piglet Model for the Study of Anesthetic-induced Developmental Neurotoxicity AIDN: A Translational Neuroscience Approach
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Use of a Piglet Model for the Study of Anesthetic-induced Developmental Neurotoxicity AIDN: A Translational Neuroscience Approach

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Anaesthesia and brain development: a review of propofol-induced neurotoxicity in pediatric populations

Weixin Zhang1, Qi Liu1, Junli Wang1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China.

Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease
|March 7, 2024
PubMed

Insights

Propofol, a common anesthetic, may harm developing brains, impacting cognitive function and learning. Understanding propofol neurotoxicity is crucial for safe usage in pediatric and maternal anesthesia.

Area of Science:

  • Anesthesiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • General anesthesia, particularly propofol, is increasingly used in newborns, infants, and pregnant women.
  • While propofol offers organ-protective benefits, emerging research indicates potential neurotoxicity in developing brains.
  • This neurotoxicity may adversely affect learning and cognitive functions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and synthesize current knowledge on propofol's neurotoxicity.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms underlying propofol-induced brain damage.
  • To summarize protective strategies against propofol's adverse effects on the developing brain.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of existing literature.
  • Analysis of case studies and clinical research on propofol's effects.
  • Classification of neurotoxicity findings based on damage mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • Clinical evidence suggests propofol exhibits neurotoxicity in the developing brain.
  • Identified mechanisms of propofol-induced neurotoxicity.
  • Overview of current strategies to mitigate propofol's neurotoxic effects.

Conclusions:

  • Propofol poses a neurotoxic risk to the developing brain, impacting cognitive functions.
  • Understanding neurotoxic mechanisms is key to optimizing propofol dosage and minimizing side effects.
  • Further research and protective strategies are essential for enhancing patient safety during anesthesia.

Keywords:
Anesthesianeurotoxicitypropofolsystematic review

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