Respiratory center

The respiratory center is located in the medulla oblongata and pons, in the brainstem. This center controls the rate and depth of respiratory movements (respiration) of the lungs.

Structure

The respiratory center is divided into three main components:

• The Dorsal respiratory group that primarily drives inspiration (inhalation).
• The Ventral respiratory group that primarily controls exhalation (expiration).
• The Pneumotaxic center and the apneustic center that control the rate and pattern of respiration.

Function

The respiratory center performs its tasks by way of generating and maintaining a rhythmic respiratory pattern. It does this by sending regular, repetitive nerve impulses to the respiratory muscles and by adjusting the rate and depth of respiration in response to various sensory stimuli.

Clinical significance

Damage to the respiratory center can lead to respiratory disorders, such as sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory failure. It can also be affected by drugs such as opioids and barbiturates, which can suppress its activity and lead to respiratory depression.

See also

• Control of respiration
• Respiratory system
• Central chemoreceptors
• Peripheral chemoreceptors

References

• 
  Respiratory Centers of the Brain
• 
  Gray's Anatomy Diagram of the Brain