Abstract
Recent data reveal that the general anesthetic propofol gives rise to a frontal α-rhythm at dose levels sufficient to induce loss of consciousness. In this work, a computational model is developed that suggests the network mechanisms responsible for such a rhythm. It is shown that propofol can alter the dynamics in thalamocortical loops, leading to persistent and synchronous α-activity. The synchrony that forms in the cortex by virtue of the involvement of the thalamus may impede responsiveness to external stimuli, thus providing a correlate for the unconscious state.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Algorithms
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Alpha Rhythm / drug effects*
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Anesthetics, Intravenous / pharmacology
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Cerebral Cortex / cytology
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Cerebral Cortex / physiology*
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Computer Simulation
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Cortical Synchronization / drug effects
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Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
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Humans
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Models, Neurological*
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Neurons / drug effects
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Neurons / physiology
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Propofol / pharmacology*
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Receptors, GABA-A / physiology
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Thalamus / cytology
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Thalamus / physiology*
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Unconsciousness
Substances
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Anesthetics, Intravenous
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Receptors, GABA-A
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Propofol