Effects of xenon on acetylcholine release in the rat cerebral cortex in vivo

Abstract

Background. We have reported previously the effects of several anaesthetics on cholinergic activity in the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, we report the effects of xenon on cholinergic cell activity. Methods. Using in vivo brain microdialysis, we measured acetylcholine (ACh) release in the rat cerebral cortex in vivo during xenon anaesthesia. Results. Xenon induced an initial increase in ACh release, followed by a gradual decrease. The level of Ach release at 40 min of xenon administration was significantly higher than the control. Conclusions. Xenon activates CNS cholinergic cell activity followed by development of acute tolerance.