> Located bilaterally in the medulla oblongata

and pons of the brain stem.

Three major collections of neurons:
Dorsal portion of Causes inspiration
the medulla

Ventrolateral part of the Causes expiration

medulla

Dorsally in the superior Controls rate and depth

portion of the pons of breathing
DORSAL RESPIRATORY GROUP OF NEURONS

> ITS CONTROL OF INSPIRATION AND RESPIRATORY

RHYTHM
> Most of its neurons are located within the nucleus of the
tractus solitarius (NTS)
NTS - sensory termination of both the vagal and the
glossopharyngeal nerves.
- transmit sensory signals into the respiratory center from
(1) peripheral chemoreceptors
(2) baroreceptors
(3) several types of receptors in the lungs
Inspiratory “Ramp” Signal

TWO QUALITIES:
1. Control of the rate of increase of the ramp signal
2. Control of the limiting point at which the ramp
suddenly ceases
PNEUMOTAXIC CENTER
> Located dorsally in the nucleus parabrachialis of the upper
pons, transmits signals to the inspiratory area
> LIMITS the duration of inspiration
> INCREASES the respiratory rate
> Control the “switch-off” point of the inspiratory ramp
VENTRAL RESPIRATORY GROUP OF
NEURONS
> Functions in both inspiration and expiration.
> Located in each side of the medulla, about 5 millimeters
anterior and lateral to the DRG of neurons.
Differs from that of the dorsal respiratory group:

1. Almost totally inactive during normal quiet respiration.

2. Do not appear to participate in the basic rhythmical oscillation

3. VRG contributes extra respiratory drive due to the respiratory signals spill
from the DRG.
4. Important in providing the powerful expiratory signals to the abdominal
muscles during very heavy expiration