Crossing the apnoeic threshold: causes and consequences
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

A Model to Simulate Clinically Relevant Hypoxia in Humans
Published on: December 22, 2016
1John Rankin Laboratory of Pulmonary Medicine, University of Wisconsin, 1300 University Avenue, Rm. 4245 MSC, Madison, WI, USA. jdempsey@wisc.edu
Abstract:
This brief review addresses the characteristics, lability and the mechanisms underlying the hypocapnic-induced apnoeic threshold which is unmasked during NREM sleep. The role of carotid chemoreceptors as fast, sensitive detectors of dynamic changes in CO2 is emphasized and placed in historical context of the long-held debate over central vs. peripheral contributions to CO2 sensing and to apnoea. Finally, evidence is presented which points to a significant role for unstable, central respiratory motor output as a significant contributor to upper airway narrowing and obstruction during sleep.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I
Hyperpnea and Hyperventilation
Acute Respiratory Failure-II
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
Sleep Apnea
The condition is more prevalent among...

