Propofol Activates GABAA Receptor-Chloride Ionophore Complex in Dissociated Hippocampal Pyramidal Neurons of the Rat

Propofol at clinically relevant concentrations directly activates the GABAA receptor-chloride ionophore complex in the mammalian central neurons and, hence, increases the chloride conductance, which may contribute to anesthesia produced by the agent. The desensitization of the GABAA receptor in the presence of high concentrations of propofol may result in a suppression of the GABAA inhibitory system.