Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Adaptation of Microelectrode Array Technology for the Study of Anesthesia-induced Neurotoxicity in the Intact Piglet Brain
Published on: May 12, 2018
Microglia in Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health
Deyi M Meng1,2, Koichiro Haruwaka2, Wu Shi2
1Choate Rosemary Hall, Wallingford, Connecticut, USA.
Abstract:
Microglia, the brain's resident immune cells, constantly survey the brain environment via their dynamic processes. They promptly respond to changes in neuronal activity and regulate neural circuits and behaviors. Emerging evidence indicates that microglia modulate anesthetic states and perioperative brain health. Specifically, microglia influence all phases of anesthesia, including facilitating induction, sustaining unconsciousness, and shaping emergence through dynamic interactions with neuronal elements and synapses. These context-dependent actions vary across anesthetic classes, highlighting opportunities for tailored intervention. Since microglia are also activated by perioperative stressors, they plausibly link anesthetic exposure to postoperative brain outcomes, including delirium and cognitive decline. Bridging mechanistic insights with clinical translation, this review outlines how microglia sense and regulate neuronal activity during anesthesia and presents potential perioperative strategies targeting microglia for precision anesthesia. Integrating microglial biology into perioperative care reframes anesthesia not merely as a means of inducing unconsciousness but as a modifiable determinant of long-term brain health.
Insights
Microglia, the brain's immune cells, significantly impact anesthesia and perioperative brain health. Targeting these cells offers new strategies for precision anesthesia and improved long-term cognitive outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Microglia are the central nervous system's resident immune cells.
- They continuously monitor the brain and respond to neuronal activity.
- Emerging research highlights their role in anesthesia and perioperative brain function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of microglia in modulating anesthetic states.
- To explore how microglia influence perioperative brain health and outcomes.
- To discuss potential microglial-targeting strategies for precision anesthesia.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on microglia, anesthesia, and perioperative care.
- Analysis of mechanistic insights into microglial sensing and regulation of neuronal activity.
- Synthesis of clinical implications for anesthesia and brain health.
Main Results:
- Microglia dynamically interact with neuronal elements and synapses throughout all phases of anesthesia.
- Their actions vary across different anesthetic classes, influencing induction, maintenance, and emergence.
- Perioperative stressors activate microglia, potentially linking anesthesia to postoperative cognitive dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Microglia are key regulators of anesthesia and perioperative brain health.
- Targeting microglia presents opportunities for personalized anesthesia approaches.
- Integrating microglial biology into perioperative care can improve long-term brain health outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:24General Anesthesia: Overview
General anesthesia induces unconsciousness in the whole body, while the others target specific areas or sensations. It is administered to minimize adverse effects, maintain...
01:22Stages of General Anesthesia