Investigating how anesthetics affect brain activity across different regions

Brain Wide Anesthetic-Active Neuronal Network

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11117147

This study is looking at how anesthesia affects certain brain cells and their connections, with the goal of finding ways to make anesthesia safer and more effective for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117147 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the complex interactions between anesthetics and specific neural circuits in the brain. By utilizing advanced techniques like 2-photon microscopy and 3D imaging, the study aims to identify which neurons remain active during anesthesia and how these neurons influence consciousness. The approach involves mapping brain activity and connectivity to better understand the mechanisms of anesthesia. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved anesthetic techniques and outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals scheduled for surgeries requiring anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgical procedures or do not require anesthesia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer anesthesia practices for patients undergoing surgical procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain activity related to anesthesia, but this study aims to provide a novel, comprehensive mapping of brain-wide circuits.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.