Molecular mechanisms of general anesthesia

General anesthetics produce a widespread neurodepression in the central nervous system by enhancing inhibitory neurotransmission and reducing excitatory neurotransmission. However, the action mechanisms of general anesthetics are not completely understood. Moreover, the general anesthetic state comprises multiple components (amnesia, unconsciousness, analgesia, and immobility), each of which is mediated by different receptors and neuronal pathways. Recently, neurotransmitter- and voltage-gated ion channels have emerged as the most likely molecular targets for general anesthetics. The gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA(A)) receptors are leading candidates as a primary target of general anesthetics. This review summarizes current knowledge on how anesthetics modify GABA(A) receptor function.