Propofol affinity to mitochondrial membranes does not alter mitochondrial function.

The molecular mechanisms of hepatotoxicity after propofol anaesthesia have not been fully elucidated, although there is a relation with mitochondrial dysfunction. The action of propofol on mitochondrial hepatic functions in a rat model was evaluated by infusion for 4h with 25 and 62.5mg/kg/h propofol or 3.

Expression of CYP1A1 and CYP1A2 in the liver and kidney of rabbits after prolonged infusion of propofol.

Background: Propofol biotransformation occurs in the liver via hydroxylation by CYP450 enzymatic complex and by glucuronidation, however extra-hepatic metabolism has also been described.

Objectives: To better understand the metabolic pathways involved in propofol biotransformation, the expression of CYP1A1, CYP1A2, the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activity and the amount of propofol and its non-conjugated metabolites were investigated.

Methods: Twenty-one NewZealand rabbits were allocated into three groups continuously treated for 20h.