Inhibition of NR2B-containing NMDA receptors during nitrogen narcosis.

Introduction: When humans breathe compressed air or N-O mixtures at three to four atmospheres pressure, they will experience nitrogen narcosis that may possibly lead to a diving accident, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods: Mice were exposed to 1.6 MPa breathing a N-O mixture adjusted to deliver an inspired PO of 32-42 kPa.