Meanfield modeling of propofol-induced changes in spontaneous EEG rhythms

During the maintenance period of propofol-induced general anesthesia, specific changes in spontaneous EEG rhythms can be observed. These comprise increased delta and theta power and the emergence of alpha oscillations over frontal regions. In this study we use a meanfield model of the thalamo-cortical system to reproduce these changes and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The model is able to reproduce the most dominant changes in the EEG and suggests that they are caused by the amplification of resonances within the thalamo-cortical system. Specifically, while observed increases in delta and alpha power are reflections of amplified resonances in the respective frequency bands, increases in theta power are caused indirectly by spectral power leakage from delta and alpha bands. The model suggests that these changes are brought about through increased inhibition within local cortical interneuron circuits. These results are encouraging and motivate more extensive use of neural meanfield models in elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying the effects of pharmacological agents on macroscopic brain dynamics.

► The mechanisms underlying changes in EEG rhythms during propofol-induced general anesthesia are incompletely understood at present.
► Meanfield modeling of the thalamo-cortical system provides an integrated explanation.
► Modeling suggests that the EEG changes are caused by amplification of thalamo-cortical resonances.
► Local inhibitory circuits in cortical tissue play an essential role.