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Related Concept Videos

Neural Control of Respiration01:18

Neural Control of Respiration

The neural regulation of respiration is a meticulously coordinated process primarily controlled by the respiratory centers located within the brainstem. These centers, composed of specialized neurons, transmit nerve impulses that control the contraction and relaxation of our respiratory muscles.
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 Respiration01:22

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The neurogenic control of respiration coordinates various neural networks and pathways to regulate breathing rate and depth, meeting the body's oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange requirements. This system adapts to physiological and environmental conditions, ensuring optimal breathing patterns.
Central Control
The brainstem is the primary site of central control, hosting respiratory centers:
Physiological Control of Respiration01:23

Physiological Control of Respiration

Introduction
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...
Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla01:21

Brainstem: Control Centers of Medulla

The medulla oblongata is a crucial part of the brainstem responsible for controlling various autonomic and involuntary functions. It contains several nuclei, including the olivary, cuneate, gracile, and solitary nuclei.
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Other Factors Affecting Respiration Centers01:17

Other Factors Affecting Respiration Centers

Breathing is primarily an involuntary activity regulated by the brainstem respiratory centers. However, it can also be consciously controlled, allowing us to hold our breath or take deeper breaths when needed. This voluntary control is facilitated by the cerebral motor cortex, which bypasses the medullary centers to stimulate the respiratory muscles directly.
However, the ability to hold one's breath voluntarily is not limitless. When the CO2 concentration in the blood reaches a critical level,...
Gross Anatomy of the Lungs01:17

Gross Anatomy of the Lungs

The lungs are a pair of vital organs connected to the trachea via the left and right bronchi. The base of these organs meets the dome-shaped muscle known as the diaphragm. Encased by the pleurae, the lungs contact the mediastinum. The right lung is shorter yet wider, and has a larger volume than the left lung. The left lung has an indentation known as the cardiac notch. The superior region of the lungs is referred to as the apex, whereas the base is the lower region near the diaphragm. The...

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ATP, glia and central respiratory control.

Joseph S Erlichman1, J C Leiter, Alexander V Gourine

  • 1Department of Biology, St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY 13617-1475, USA. jerlichman@stlawu.edu

Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|July 6, 2010
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Increased carbon dioxide (CO2) and low oxygen trigger ATP release from the brainstem. Astrocytes release ATP to regulate cardiorespiratory responses and blood flow, highlighting their crucial role in homeostasis.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cardiorespiratory Physiology
  • Astrocyte Biology

Background:

  • Arterial hypercapnia (increased PCO2) and hypoxia trigger ATP release from the ventral medulla.
  • ATP and other gliotransmitters released from the ventral medulla modulate cardiorespiratory responses to these stressors.
  • Astrocytes are implicated in mediating these responses, potentially releasing ATP.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of astrocytes in cardiorespiratory regulation during hypoxia and hypercapnia.
  • To explore the mechanisms of ATP release and its function in the ventral medulla.
  • To understand how astrocytes integrate neuronal activity to maintain homeostasis.

Main Methods:

  • Measurement of ATP release from the ventral medullary surface in anesthetized rats under systemic hypoxia.
  • Observation of cardiorespiratory responses to hypoxia and hypercapnia.
  • Analysis of astrocyte activation, intracellular Ca(2+) signaling, and gliotransmitter release.

Main Results:

  • Systemic hypoxia and hypercapnia increased ATP release from the ventral medullary surface.
  • Released ATP and other gliotransmitters appeared to enhance cardiorespiratory responses.
  • Astrocyte activation, Ca(2+) waves, and release of vasoactive substances (ATP, adenosine) were observed.
  • Astrocytes demonstrated the ability to modulate local vascular tone (dilation/constriction).

Conclusions:

  • Astrocytes play a significant role in integrating neuronal metabolic demands with substrate availability and waste removal.
  • Astrocytes regulate local blood flow and cardiorespiratory adjustments during hypoxia and hypercapnia.
  • Astrocytes are crucial for maintaining organismal homeostasis and neuronal activity regulation, with a broader role than previously recognized.