Paired Assessment of Volatile Anesthetic Concentrations with Synaptic Actions Recorded In Vitro

Authors: Stuart J. McDougall, James H. Peters, Lia LaBrant, Xin Wang, Dennis R. Koop, Michael C. Andresen

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003372

Abstract Summary

Researchers developed a method to accurately measure isoflurane concentrations during lab experiments using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. They found that anesthetic levels in tissue baths varied unpredictably between experiments due to rapid evaporation and solution handling—differences large enough to span clinically significant ranges. The findings suggest direct measurement is essential for reliable in vitro studies.

Why Brain? 🧠

Study reveals isoflurane concentrations in lab experiments vary unpredictably from intended doses, spanning clinically significant levels, necessitating direct measurement for accurate research.

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