Respiratory center

The Respiratory center (pronounced: res-pi-ra-tory cen-ter) is a complex of networks in the brain that regulates the process of respiration.

Etymology

The term "Respiratory center" is derived from the Latin word "respirare" which means "to breathe" and the Latin word "centrum" which means "center".

Definition

The Respiratory center is an area located in the Medulla oblongata and Pons, parts of the Brainstem, that controls the rate and depth of respiratory movements. It receives input from chemoreceptors, mechanoreceptors, the cerebral cortex, and the hypothalamus to adjust the respiratory rate and depth in response to changing physiological conditions.

Function

The Respiratory center functions to maintain adequate gas exchange in the lungs by adjusting the rate and depth of respiration. It does this by sending nerve impulses to the diaphragm and the Intercostal muscles which control the expansion and contraction of the Thoracic cavity.

Related Terms

Medulla oblongata: The lower half of the brainstem that contains the cardiac, respiratory, vomiting and vasomotor centers and deals with autonomic functions such as breathing, heart rate and blood pressure.
Pons: The part of the brainstem that links the medulla oblongata and the thalamus.
Brainstem: The posterior part of the brain, continuous with the spinal cord.
Respiration (physiology): The process of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide.
Diaphragm (anatomy): A sheet of internal skeletal muscle that extends across the bottom of the thoracic cavity.
Intercostal muscles: Several groups of muscles that run between the ribs, and help form and move the chest wall.
Thoracic cavity: The chamber of the body of vertebrates that is protected by the thoracic wall.

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Respiratory center
Wikipedia's article - Respiratory center

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Respiratory center