Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Breathing-controlled Electrical Stimulation (BreEStim) for Management of Neuropathic Pain and Spasticity
Published on: January 10, 2013
Tonic control of subretrofacial vasomotor neurons in the rostral ventrolateral medulla
1Department of Physiology, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Abstract:
1. Vasomotor pressor neurons in the subretrofacial nucleus of the rostral ventrolateral medulla receive afferent inputs from different sources that utilize different neurotransmitters. This paper briefly reviews recent studies on the role of inputs releasing: (i) GABA, and (ii) angiotensin II (AII) in the subretrofacial nucleus. 2. There are two types of tonic GABAergic inhibitory inputs: one arises from peripheral baroreceptors, while the second is independent of peripheral baroreceptors. 3. Blockade of receptors for AII elicits a decrease in blood pressure and sympathetic vasomotor activity, indicating that subretrofacial neurons are also tonically excited by AII. It is likely that the AII is released from nerve terminals in the subretrofacial nucleus, but the origin of the pathway is unknown.
Related Concept Videos
Physiological Control of Respiration
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Direct-Acting Cholinergic Agonists: Pharmacological Actions
Brainstem
The Midbrain
The midbrain is located beneath the diencephalon and connects the cerebrum with the lower parts of the brain. The cerebral peduncles are prominent midbrain structures that house the...
Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla
Olivary Nucleus
The olivary nucleus, or inferior olivary nucleus, is located within the ventrolateral part of the medulla oblongata. It is primarily involved in motor coordination and motor learning. The olivary nucleus receives input from the spinal cord, cerebellum, and motor...
Neural Control of Respiration
Respiratory Centers in the Brainstem
Two primary areas comprise the respiratory center: the medullary respiratory center in the medulla oblongata and the pontine respiratory group in the pons. The...
Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration
Central Control
The brainstem is the primary site of central control, hosting respiratory centers:

