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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

Physiology of Respiration II: Neurogenic Control of Respiration

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...
Brainstem01:19

Brainstem

The brainstem, located inferior to the brain and superior to the spinal cord, serves as a bridge between the cerebrum and the spinal cord. It plays a vital role in relaying information and controlling critical life functions. It comprises three primary regions: the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata.
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...
Spinal Cord: Information Processing01:10

Spinal Cord: Information Processing

The spinal cord is an integral hub for motor and sensory information that enables the brain to communicate with the peripheral nervous system (PNS). This communication consists of relaying sensory data and transmission of motor commands.
Sensory Information Processing
Sensory information processing begins at the sensory receptors located in the skin and other tissues, which detect somatic sensory stimuli such as touch, temperature, or pain. These receptors function as catalysts, initiating...
Spinal Cord01:26

Spinal Cord

The spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system, extends from the base of the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It is essential for maintaining physical stability and facilitating communication between the brain and peripheral parts of the body.

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A Murine Model of Cervical Spinal Cord Injury to Study Post-lesional Respiratory Neuroplasticity
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Published on: May 28, 2014

Spinal respiratory motoneurons and interneurons.

Michael A Lane1

  • 1Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida - McKnight Brain Institute, PO Box 100244, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States. michael.lane@mbi.ufl.edu

Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology
|July 26, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Understanding the neural control of breathing is vital for higher vertebrates. This review details spinal motoneurons and interneurons in mammalian respiratory activity and their response to central nervous system injury or disease.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Respiratory Physiology

Background:

  • Breathing relies on coordinated respiratory muscle activity.
  • Neural control of respiratory rhythm involves spinal and supraspinal components.
  • Complete understanding of respiratory pathways and interconnectivity is lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge of spinal motoneurons and interneurons in mammalian respiratory activity.
  • To examine how these neural components are affected by central nervous system injury or disease.

Main Methods:

  • Review of multidisciplinary studies on respiratory neural pathways.
  • Analysis of the distribution and function of spinal respiratory neurons.
  • Examination of the impact of injury and disease on these pathways.

Main Results:

  • Detailed distribution of spinal motoneurons and interneurons involved in breathing.
  • Insights into how central nervous system injury and disease affect respiratory neural networks.
  • Identification of gaps in understanding respiratory pathway interconnectivity.

Conclusions:

  • Current understanding of respiratory neural pathways is incomplete.
  • Further research is needed to define these pathways fully.
  • Knowledge of these pathways is crucial for understanding respiratory dysfunction in disease and injury.