Grant: Project Grant

Repeated anesthesia in very young or old patients can cause cognitive impairment. The underlying mechanisms are not understood and currently, there is no treatment to prevent anesthesia-induced cognitive decline. Using an animal model, we found that repeated anesthesia induces neuronal death in the brain. The affected neurons are critical for regulation of brain activity and memory formation. Using a combination of biochemical, imaging and electrophysiological techniques, we propose to study the mechanisms of neuronal loss and the effect of protecting the susceptible cells on cognition. We also found that insulin given intranasally prevents anesthesia-induced memory impairment. We propose that intranasal insulin prevents cellular loss via its effects on the mitochondria. In summary, our studies will provide insights into the mechanisms underlying anesthesia-induced memory decline and elucidate how intranasal insulin protects neurons from anesthesia-related damage.