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Mechanism of Breathing I: Inspiration

Mechanism of Breathing I: Inspiration

Introduction to Inspiration: The Respiratory System in Action
The respiratory system, an essential network for breathing, comprises the conducting and respiratory zones, each playing a crucial role in the overall process of respiration. Let us explore the detailed mechanism of inspiration, or inhalation, which is the first phase of the respiratory cycle.
Pathway of Air during Inspiration
During inspiration, air enters our body through the nose or mouth and moves through the conducting zone,...

Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles

Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles

The Role of Accessory Muscles in the Respiratory System
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...

Overview of Respiratory System

Overview of Respiratory System

The respiratory system is a complex biological apparatus that facilitates the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, between our bodies and the environment. This system plays a vital role in the physiological process of respiration, an essential function for sustaining life.
What is the Respiratory System?
The respiratory system consists of a series of organs responsible for taking in oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. The primary function of the respiratory system is to...

Respiratory Capacities

Respiratory Capacities

Respiratory capacities are crucial indicators of lung function, representing the maximum amount of air an individual's respiratory system can handle during various breathing phases.
One key metric is the Inspiratory Capacity (IC), which represents the maximum amount of air that can be inhaled with full effort. IC is calculated by summing the tidal volume and inspiratory reserve volume, typically ranging from 2.4 to 3.6 liters.
The Functional Residual Capacity (FRC) represents the air in the...

Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract

Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract

The upper respiratory tract plays a vital role in the respiratory system, comprising several structures that facilitate air intake and prepare air for the lungs. It also serves as the first line of defense against pathogens and particles. This tract includes the nose and nasal cavity, the oral cavity, the paranasal sinuses, and the pharynx, each with specific functions and features.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract.

Anatomy of Respiratory System II: Lower Respiratory Tract

Anatomy of Respiratory System II: Lower Respiratory Tract

The lower respiratory tract is anatomically composed of several vital structures, including the larynx, trachea, bronchial tree, alveoli, lungs, and pleurae. Each component has a specific function, and all are intricately connected to ensure efficient respiration.
The Larynx
It is located between the pharynx and the trachea, acts as a passageway for air, and hosts several critical structures, such as the epiglottis, vocal cords, and glottis. The epiglottis acts as a gateway, guiding food to the...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique

Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique

Published on: May 15, 2013

Evolutionary trends in respiratory mechanisms.

William K Milsom¹

¹University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology. milsom@zoology.ubc.ca

Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology

|December 19, 2007

Summary

Vertebrate respiratory systems evolved from buccal pumps to aspiration pumps, with changes in valving and respiratory muscles facilitating air breathing. These systems coordinate to produce various breath types, including eupneic breaths and gasps.

Area of Science:

Comparative physiology
Evolutionary biology
Neuroscience

Background:

The vertebrate respiratory system exhibits diverse functional morphologies across phyla.
Understanding these changes offers insights into the control of physiological systems.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore the evolutionary transition of respiratory systems in vertebrates.
To investigate the neural control mechanisms underlying different breathing patterns.

Main Methods:

Comparative analysis of respiratory system morphology across vertebrate phyla.
Examination of muscle innervation and neural control pathways.

Main Results:

A shift from buccal pumps (cranial nerve-innervated) to thoraco-abdominal aspiration pumps (spinal nerve-innervated) was observed.

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Last Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique

Evaluation of Respiratory System Mechanics in Mice using the Forced Oscillation Technique

Published on: May 15, 2013

Determining Ciliary Function and Membrane Impermeability of the Pseudostratified Lung Airway Epithelium

Determining Ciliary Function and Membrane Impermeability of the Pseudostratified Lung Airway Epithelium

Published on: February 21, 2025

Initial air breathing involved behavioral changes and valving modifications, followed by respiratory pump muscle evolution.

Three independent valving circuits, potentially linked to segmental rhythm generators, coordinate breath production.

Conclusions:

The evolution of air breathing involved sequential changes in behavior, valving, and pump mechanics.
Neural circuits controlling respiration are highly conserved and adaptable.
Coordinated action of valving circuits and rhythm generators produces diverse breathing patterns, including eupneic breaths and gasps.