The Effect of Nitrous Oxide on the Cell Cycle in Human Bone Marrow

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Abstract
The effect of 24 h exposure to N2O on the cell division cycle in human bone marrow was studied in vivo using the technique of DNA flow microfluorimetry. All patients who received N2O showed a significant increase in the proportion of early S-phase cells with a decrease in late S, G2 and mitotic cells. These changes resembled those seen following the use of S-phase-specific cytotoxic drugs. Control patients showed no such effect. Parallel studies suggested that interference with the function of vitamin B12 underlies this response. N2O may provide a convenient method for studying the cell kinetic aspects of acute B12 deficiency and the possibility of using it to increase the therapeutic index of antitumor drugs was discussed.