General anesthesia (GA) is a miracle of medicine that has enabled the practice of modern surgery. Agents of GA include halogenated gases such as sevoflurane, nitrous oxide, intravenous agents such as propofol, and other medications intended to facilitate global suppression of the nervous system.

Since at least 1979 it has been clear that GA gases may reach and impact the germ cells, and further, mammalian models have demonstrated that these gases can in some cases exert adverse impacts on offspring brain and behavior.

CHEA is a group of researchers and advocates seeking to accelerate research into the germ cell and heritable impacts of GA.

Researchers interested in joining our listserv are welcome to contact us for more information.