How volatile anesthetics affect consciousness and metabolism

Volatile Anesthetics and Metabolism

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11030292

This study is looking at how certain anesthetics make people temporarily unconscious and how our genes might affect how we respond to them, which could help make surgeries safer for everyone.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11030292 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which volatile anesthetics (VAs) induce a temporary loss of consciousness. By utilizing genetic models, the study examines how mitochondrial function influences sensitivity to VAs across different species, including humans. The research focuses on specific genetic alterations in mice to understand the role of astrocytes and other cell types in arousal and anesthetic-induced neurotoxicity. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to safer anesthetic practices and improved outcomes during surgical procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals undergoing surgical procedures requiring anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or do not require anesthesia may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer anesthetic techniques and better management of consciousness during surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of anesthetics on consciousness, but this approach is exploring novel mechanisms that have not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.