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Recent advances in respiratory neurobiology using in vitro methods
1Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle 98195.
The American Journal of Physiology
|August 1, 1990
Summary
Mammalian in vitro preparations significantly advance respiratory neurobiology research. These controlled environments reveal crucial neuronal mechanisms underlying breathing control and chemoreception.
Area of Science:
- Neurobiology
- Physiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Mammalian in vitro preparations are revolutionizing the study of respiratory neurobiology.
- These preparations offer precise control over the neuronal environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the utility of mammalian in vitro preparations in respiratory neurobiology.
- To highlight recent advances in understanding respiratory control mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing whole mounts of neonatal rat brain stem and spinal cord.
- Employing thick and thin slices from various central nervous system (CNS) regions.
- Working with isolated cells and patch-type electrodes for intracellular and extracellular control.
Main Results:
- Precise control over extracellular and intracellular environments.
- Determination of membrane and intracellular mechanisms.
- Gained new insights into respiratory rhythmogenesis, neuronal firing patterns, neurotransmitter effects, and chemoreception.
Conclusions:
- Mammalian in vitro preparations are key to major advances in respiratory neurobiology.
- These methods provide unprecedented insights into the neural control of breathing.