Perturbation of Ion Channel Conductance Alters the Hypnotic Response to the α2-Adrenergic Agonist Dexmedetomidine in the Locus Coeruleus of the Rat

Abstract

Inhibition of ion conductance through L- or P-type calcium channels and facilitation of conductance through voltage-gated or calcium-activated potassium channels may be involved in the mechanism of hypnotic action of alpha 2-adrenergic agonists. These changes in ion conductance were capable of producing membrane hyperpolarization and decreasing neuronal excitability. There was no evidence for the involvement of adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels or N-type calcium channels in the hypnotic response to dexmedetomidine.