Propofol: an anesthetic possessing neuroprotective effects.

Propofol is a short-acting intravenous anaesthetic agent and widely used not only in operating rooms but also in the intensive care unit (ICU). Apart from its multiple anaesthetic advantages, the neuroprotective effect of propofol has been demonstrated in diverse models of neuronal injury. The effect of propofol results from activation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor, modulation excitatory amino acid transmitter system and protecting brain cells against oxidative stress. Moreover, propofol is able to supress apoptosis and inflammation and to regulate neuroprotection-associated proteins or ion homeostasis to act its neuroprotective effects. This review focuses on the research progress of the neuroprotective effects of propofol and its mechanisms of action to date. The implications for possible use for the clinical setting are also discussed.