Respiratory Center
Anatomy and Location
The respiratory center is a complex network of neurons located within the medulla oblongata and pons, two structures found in the brainstem. This center is responsible for controlling the rate and depth of respiratory movements of the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles.
Function
The primary function of the respiratory center is to maintain adequate gas concentrations, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, in the arterial blood. It does this by adjusting the rate and depth of breathing in response to signals from chemoreceptors and mechanoreceptors.
Components
The respiratory center consists of three major components: the dorsal respiratory group (DRG), the ventral respiratory group (VRG), and the pneumotaxic center.
Dorsal Respiratory Group (DRG)
The DRG primarily controls the inspiratory muscles. It receives information about the level of blood gases and sends signals to the muscles involved in inspiration.
Ventral Respiratory Group (VRG)
The VRG primarily controls the expiratory muscles. It remains inactive during normal breathing but becomes active during heavy breathing.
Pneumotaxic Center
The pneumotaxic center is responsible for controlling the rate and pattern of breathing. It sends signals to the DRG to switch off inspiration, allowing expiration to occur.
Control Mechanisms
The respiratory center uses both neural and chemical control mechanisms to regulate breathing.
Neural Control
Neural control involves the direct control of breathing by the nervous system. The respiratory center receives input from the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, including sensory receptors in the lungs and other parts of the body.
Chemical Control
Chemical control involves the monitoring of chemical levels in the blood, particularly levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen ions (pH). Changes in these levels can trigger adjustments in the rate and depth of breathing.
Disorders and Diseases
Disorders of the respiratory center can lead to serious respiratory conditions, including sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and respiratory failure. These conditions can be life-threatening and require medical intervention.