Immunohistochemistry of central respiratory neurotransmitters

Significant progress has been made in identifying the nuclei and pathways involved in central control of respiration in mammals. This knowledge provides a framework from which to focus on the question of which putative neurotransmitters may be involved in central respiratory control. Application of chemical neuroanatomical methods, particularly immunohistochemistry, is a powerful approach to this important question. This commentary discusses how immunohistochemical approaches have been used so far to extend our knowledge of central respiratory neurotransmitters and also how they can be further applied to gain new information. The results of immunohistochemical studies provide a rationale for subsequent physiological and pharmacological studies of respiratory neurons where specific actions of putative neurotransmitters can be evaluated.