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Retrotrapezoid nucleus and central chemoreception.

Patrice G Guyenet¹, Ruth L Stornetta, Douglas A Bayliss

¹University of Virginia Health System, P.O. Box 800735, 1300 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA. pgg@virginia.edu.

The Journal of Physiology

|March 1, 2008

Summary

The specialized chemoreceptor theory proposes that a few specialized neurons, like those in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), control breathing regulation. This contrasts with the distributed chemoreception theory, suggesting broader neuronal involvement in the central chemoreflex.

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Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Respiratory Physiology

Background:

The central chemoreflex regulates breathing in response to central nervous system (CNS) acidification.
Two main theories, 'distributed chemoreception' and 'specialized chemoreceptor,' explain this reflex.
Current understanding involves numerous pH-sensitive neurons versus a limited set of specialized chemoreceptors.

Purpose of the Study:

To review and critically analyze the 'distributed chemoreception theory'.
To present evidence supporting the 'specialized chemoreceptor theory', focusing on the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN).
To resolve the apparent contradiction between the two theories of central chemoreception.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on central chemoreception and respiratory neurobiology.
Critical analysis of assumptions underlying the distributed chemoreception theory.
Examination of the properties of neurons within the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN).

Main Results:

The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) is proposed as a key site for central chemoreceptors.
The study critically analyzes the 'distributed chemoreception theory', questioning the extent of neuronal involvement.
Apparent contradictions are explained by in vitro chemosensitivity extrapolations and semantic confusion between chemosensitivity and chemoreception.

Conclusions:

The 'specialized chemoreceptor theory' offers a more parsimonious explanation for the central chemoreflex.
The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) likely plays a critical role in detecting changes in pH and driving respiratory responses.
Distinguishing between in vitro chemosensitivity and in vivo chemoreception is crucial for understanding breathing regulation.