According to a Mayo Clinic study published in the journal Nature Neuroscience, the cells that act as the central nervous system’s first line of defence against harm also play a role in helping the brain awaken from anaesthesia.
This discovery could help pave the way for innovative methods that address post-anaesthesia complications.
When coming out of anaesthesia, more than one-third of patients can experience either extreme drowsiness or hyperactivity – a side effect called delirium.
Mayo researchers in the United States found that special immune cells in the brain called microglia, can act to shield neurons from the aftereffects of anaesthesia to awaken the brain.
“This is the first time we’ve seen microglia enhance and boost neuronal activity by physically engaging the brain circuits,” says study senior author and Mayo Clinic neuroscientist Dr Wu Long-Jun.
The researchers observed microglia wedging between neurons and inhibitory synapses, and suppressing neural activity under anaesthesia.
The microglia appear to be trying to shield the neurons to counteract sedation.
The brain consists of a network of neurons that fire and spur activity throughout the body.
Neurons are connected by synapses that receive and transmit signals, enabling one to move, think, feel and communicate.
In this environment, microglia help keep the brain healthy, stable and functioning.
Although microglia were discovered more than 100 years ago, it wasn’t until the last 20 years that they became a serious research focus. – By Alison Satake/Mayo Clinic News Network/Tribune News Service
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
