Changes in brain connectivity and neurovascular dynamics during dexmedetomidine-induced loss of consciousness.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the neurophysiological changes underlying conscious-unconscious transitions is a key goal in neuroscience. Using magnetic resonance neuroimaging, we investigate the network connectivity and neurovascular changes occurring as the human brain transitions from wakefulness to dexmedetomidine-induced hypnosis, and recovery. Hypnosis led to widespread decreases in functional connectivity strength and increased structure-function coupling, indicating functional patterns more constrained by the underlying anatomical connectivity. As individuals began to regain consciousness, both connectivity markers returned towards awake levels, with particularly prominent coupling changes across the cerebellum. Neurovascular dynamics were disrupted during hypnosis as well: cerebral blood flow decr

SUBMITTER: Fotiadis P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12368020 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature