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Alpha2-adrenoceptors coordinate swallowing and respiration
T Yamanishi1, K Takao, H Koizumi
1First Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, 1-8 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, Japan. yaman2@dent.osaka-u.ac.jp
Journal of Dental Research
|February 9, 2010
Summary
Noradrenergic neurons, specifically alpha2-adrenergic receptors, play a key role in coordinating swallowing and respiration. This research helps understand how these vital functions are regulated to prevent respiratory issues like aspiration pneumonia.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Respiratory Physiology
- Gastrointestinal Physiology
Background:
- Discoordination between swallowing and respiration can lead to severe respiratory disorders, including aspiration pneumonia.
- Medullary noradrenergic neurons are implicated in the esophageal-gastric relaxation reflex, suggesting a potential role in swallowing-respiration coordination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of medullary noradrenergic neurons in the coordination between swallowing and respiration.
- To test the hypothesis that these neurons regulate the interplay between these two vital functions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an in vitro brain-stem preparation from neonatal rats.
- Induced swallowing activity via electrical stimulation of the supralaryngeal nerve.
- Administered adrenergic receptor agonists and antagonists to assess effects on respiratory rhythm.
Main Results:
- Swallowing activity consistently induced a temporal inhibition of the respiratory rhythm.
- Norepinephrine, a broad adrenergic receptor agonist, significantly blocked this swallowing-induced respiratory inhibition.
- Alpha2-adrenergic receptor agonists blocked, while antagonists enhanced, the swallowing-induced respiratory inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Medullary noradrenergic neurons, particularly those acting via alpha2-adrenergic receptors, are crucial for regulating the coordination between swallowing and respiration.
- Findings provide insights into the neuronal mechanisms underlying the integration of these two essential physiological processes.
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