Where do general anaesthetics act?

Nature. 1978 Jul 27;274(5669):339-42. doi: 10.1038/274339a0.

Abstract

General anaesthetics were found to have no effect on lipid bilayer structures when studied using X-ray and neutron diffraction. Combined gaseous and aqueous phase solubility data suggested that the primary site of action of general anaesthetics has both polar and nonpolar characteristics, and probably involves protein.

MeSH terms

  • Anesthetics / pharmacology*
  • Chemical Phenomena
  • Chemistry, Physical
  • Cholesterol
  • Gases
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Membranes, Artificial*
  • Neutrons
  • Oils
  • Phosphatidylcholines
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • Solubility
  • Water
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Anesthetics
  • Gases
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Membranes, Artificial
  • Oils
  • Phosphatidylcholines
  • Water
  • Cholesterol