Brain energy supply, effects

At the CNS, BZ binds to all subtypes of muscarinic receptors, each of them with different functions in the brain (Lefkowitz, 2004). The particularly long duration of the central action of BZ may be related to its greater affinity for nervous tissue, especially the strong adsorption effect on mitochondria, the subcellular organelles concerned principally with the energy supply to the cell. BZ has been foimd to reduce the oxygen consumption of nerve cells stimulated in various ways (Jovic and Zupanc, 1973). 

Continuous cerebral circulation is required to sustain brain function. Not only does the brain utilize 02 at a very rapid rate, but the brain is absolutely dependent on uninterrupted oxidative metabolism for maintenance of its functional and structural integrity. Even at its maximal rate, anaerobic glycolysis can provide only a small portion of the required energy. Since the amount of 02 stored in brain is extremely small compared with its rate of utilization, the brain requires a continuous supply of 02 from the circulation, and brief disruptions in this supply have an immediate effect on brain function and consciousness. 

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