The Common Inhalational Anesthetic Isoflurane Induces Apoptosis via  Activation of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptors

These findings suggest that isoflurane activates the ER membrane IP3 receptor, producing excessive calcium release and triggering apoptosis. Neurons with enhanced IP3 receptor activity, as in certain cases of familial Alzheimer or Huntington disease, may be especially vulnerable to isoflurane cytotoxicity.