Control of Respiration

Question 1

where and how is respiratory rhythm generated?

Answer 1

breathing is an automatic and rhythmic act provided by networks of neutrons in the pons and medulla. The nuclei networks direct muscles that form the walls of the thorax and abdomen and produce pressure gradients that move air into and out of the lungs. The respiratory rhythm and the length of each phase of respiration are set by reciprocal stimulatory and inhibitory interconnection of these brain stem neurons

Question 2

what are chemoreceptors, and what do respiratory chemoreceptors respond to

Answer 2

specialised neurons that respond to changes in the chemicals in solution. the chemoreceptors involved with the regulation of respiration respond to changes in hydrogen ions and/or change in PO2.

Question 3

what are central chemoreceptors

Answer 3

they are located bilaterally and ventrally in the chemosensitive area of the medulla oblongata, and they are connected to the resp. centre

Question 4

what are peripheral chemoreceptors

Answer 4

they are found in the carotid and aortic bodies. these structures are small vascular sensory organs which are encapsulated in connective tissue and located near the carotid sinus and aortic arch