Modulation of gene expression and inflammation but not DNA damage after sevoflurane anesthesia

Abstract This study assessed, for the first time, the expression of the genes hOGG1 , TP53 , and IL‐6 in leukocytes by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction in surgical patients before (baseline), during (2 h of anesthesia) and 1 day after sevoflurane anesthesia. Additionally, DNA damage was detected by the comet assay, serum interleukin (IL)‐6 was detected by flow cytometry, and differential leukocyte counting was also performed. TP53 and hOGG1 expression was downregulated on the day after anesthesia compared to before anesthesia. However, IL‐6 expression did not change, and no DNA damage induction was observed during or after anesthesia. At the systemic level, mild neutrophilia and an increase in IL‐6 levels occurred after anesthesia. Our findings suggest that sevoflurane anesthesia downregulates gene expression ( hOGG1 and TP53 ) and contributes to an inflammatory status (increased systemic IL‐6 and mild neutrophilia) but is not associated with DNA damage in patients without comorbidities who undergo minor elective surgery.