Pharmacologically evoked apnoeas. Receptors and nervous pathways involved

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Respiratory Physiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Transient apnoeic spells can be triggered by chemical stimulation of vagal afferents.
• Understanding the neural circuits and receptors involved is crucial for managing respiratory dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the incidence of transient apnoeic spells induced by substances activating vagal chemically sensitive afferents.
• To explore the role of specific receptors and pontomedullary circuits in respiratory cessation.
• To investigate the potential of 5-HT1A serotonin receptors in counteracting opioid-induced respiratory inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on vagal afferent stimulation and respiratory control.
• Analysis of research on pontomedullary respiratory circuits.
• Examination of receptor specificity and expression, particularly 5-HT1A receptors.

Main Results:

• Substances activating vagal chemically sensitive afferents can induce transient apnoeic spells.
• Pontomedullary circuits play a key role in the cessation of respiration.
• 5-HT1A serotonin receptors demonstrate an excitatory drive that can overcome opioid-induced respiratory inhibition.

Conclusions:

• Vagal afferent activation is a significant factor in transient apnoeic spells.
• Targeting 5-HT1A serotonin receptors offers a potential therapeutic strategy for opioid-induced respiratory depression.