PULMONARY PHYSIOLOGY-RESPIRATORY CENTRE

SUMMARY

A number of cell groups in the reticular formation of the pons and medulla are responsible for the motor control of the respiratory cycle.

1. INSPIRATORY CENTRE (DORSAL RESPIRATORY GROUP): b/l groups of cells in the region of the nucleus of the tractus solitarius in the dorsum of the medulla which are responsible for the rhymicity of breathing. Their axons pass down to the contralateral phrenic nerve neurons.

2. VENTRAL RESPIRATORY GROUP: b/l groups of cells in the region of the nucleus ambiguus in the ventrum of the medulla which influence the abdominal & intercostal muscles.

3. PNEUMOTAXIC CENTRE: situated near the superior cerebellar peduncle, which controls the changeover from inspiration to expiration by modifying the activity of the medullary centres.

4. APNEUSTIC CENTRE: ill-defined, located in the lower pons, concerned with the duration of the respiratory phases.

5. The cerebral cortex, diencephalon and hypothalamus also exert their influence on respiration, either via the above-mentioned centres or directly onto the anterior horn cells innervating the muscles of respiration.

Reference(s)

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