Abstract
Behavioral effects of nitrous oxide in various species led us to use this gas as a tool to investigate correlations between changes in bioelectric activity of the brain and behavioral alterations. We recorded in rats from the cortical surface and hippocampus while the animals inhaled air or nitrous oxide, before and after having learned a temporal discrimination task. Subanesthetic concentrations of nitrous oxide decreased exploratory behavior and reaction to stimuli. Very large amplitude, irregular activity (designated vLIA) prevailed in those rats which seemed most affected. Another form of large amplitude, irregular activity (LIA) was recorded from motionless but alert rats. LIA was smaller than vLIA. Rhythmic slow wave activity (RSA) of 7–11 Hz was unaffected by nitrous oxide. There was a separate RSA of 5–7 Hz which was affected by nitrous oxide. The results suggest that alterations in the EEG correlate with changes in the state of the rat. Possible physiological bases for these effects are discussed.
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