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Invited review: Neural network plasticity in respiratory control
K F Morris1, D M Baekey, S C Nuding
1Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of South Florida Health Sciences Center, Tampa, Florida 33612, USA. kmorris@hsc.usf.edu
Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985)
|February 7, 2003
Summary
Respiratory network plasticity modifies breathing control, creating lasting memories from stimuli like hypoxia. These changes in neural networks may influence conditions such as sleep apnea and sudden infant death syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Respiratory network plasticity refers to persistent modifications in respiratory control.
- Hypoxia and hypercapnia can induce distinct respiratory memories.
- Alterations in respiratory networks are implicated in various clinical conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms and implications of respiratory network plasticity.
- To understand how different hypoxia patterns induce respiratory memories.
- To investigate the role of brainstem networks in respiratory control and plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the role of lateral pontine neurons in respiratory frequency changes after hypoxia.
- Examined changes in medullary neuron synchrony and firing rates.
- Analyzed brainstem respiratory network responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia.
Main Results:
- Lateral pontine neurons are crucial for respiratory frequency decrease post-hypoxia.
- Medullary neuron activity changes may underlie long-term breathing facilitation after intermittent hypoxia.
- Brainstem networks show differential responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia, interacting with cardiovascular control areas.
Conclusions:
- Respiratory network plasticity, involving brainstem and medullary neurons, plays a significant role in adapting respiratory control.
- These plastic changes may contribute to hypertension in sleep apnea and are implicated in sudden infant death syndrome.
- Further research into these neural network alterations is critical for understanding and treating related disorders.