Related Experiment Videos
Neuroplasticity in respiratory motor control.
Gordon S Mitchell1, Stephen M Johnson
1Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison 53706, USA. mitchell@svm.vetmed.wisc.edu
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|December 18, 2002
Summary
Respiratory neuroplasticity involves persistent changes in neural control due to experience. This review defines respiratory plasticity, explores its sites, mechanisms, and factors influencing it, highlighting its therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Recent evidence shows significant neuroplasticity in the respiratory control system.
- A comprehensive conceptual framework for respiratory plasticity is currently lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define plasticity and related neural properties in respiratory control.
- To discuss potential sites, mechanisms, and categories of respiratory plasticity.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research on respiratory neuroplasticity.
- It defines key terms and categorizes known forms of plasticity.
Main Results:
- Respiratory plasticity is a persistent change in neural control based on experience, involving structural/functional alterations.
- It depends on preconditions, stimulus, modulatory systems, age, gender, and genetics.
- Plasticity can be induced by hypoxia, hypercapnia, exercise, injury, stress, and pharmacological interventions, occurring in both development and adulthood.
Conclusions:
- Developmental plasticity alters mature respiratory control during sensitive periods.
- Neuromodulation, particularly serotonergic, is crucial for adult respiratory plasticity.
- Further research is needed to understand its biological significance, mechanisms, and therapeutic applications.