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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
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Electrophysiology on Isolated Brainstem-spinal Cord Preparations from Newborn Rodents Allows Neural Respiratory Network Output Recording
Published on: November 19, 2015
Species differences in respiratory rhythm generation in rodents
B M Gajda1, A Y Fong, W K Milsom
1Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C., V6T 1Z4 Canada.
Summary
Respiratory networks differ between rats and hamsters. Young rats rely more on riluzole (RIL) and flufenamic acid (FFA)-sensitive mechanisms for breathing than older rats or hamsters.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Respiratory rhythmogenesis relies on complex neural networks.
- Mechanisms promoting endogenous bursting may differ across species and developmental stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of riluzole (RIL) and flufenamic acid (FFA)-sensitive mechanisms in respiratory rhythmogenesis.
- To compare these mechanisms in rats and hamsters, hypothesizing species- and age-dependent differences.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an in situ arterially perfused preparation of rat and hamster respiratory systems.
- Administered RIL and FFA at varying concentrations to assess their effects on respiratory motor output.
- Examined responses in young and weaned rats, and weaned hamsters.
Main Results:
- Weaned hamsters showed high sensitivity to RIL, while young rats showed reduced sensitivity, and weaned rats were unaffected.
- FFA equally reduced respiratory output in young and weaned rats but not in weaned hamsters.
- Combined RIL and FFA inhibited respiration more in rats than individually, while FFA counteracted RIL's effect in hamsters.
Conclusions:
- Respiratory rhythmogenesis in young rats is more dependent on excitatory RIL- and FFA-sensitive mechanisms compared to older rats.
- Significant fundamental differences exist in respiratory rhythmogenic mechanisms between rats and hamsters, particularly related to autoresuscitation capabilities.
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