The regulation of respiration involves a complex interplay between various neural and chemical factors to ensure the body's oxygen and carbon dioxide levels remain balanced.
The primary control centers for respiration are located in the medulla oblongata and the pons of the brainstem.
Here are the main components involved in the regulation of respiration:
1. Medullary respiratory center:
Located in the medulla oblongata, it contains the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and ventral respiratory group (VRG), which control the basic rhythm of respiration.
2. Apneustic and pneumotaxic centers:
Located in the pons, these centers modulate the activity of the medullary respiratory center to fine-tune the respiratory rate and depth.
3. Chemoreceptors:
Central and peripheral chemoreceptors monitor the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen ions (pH) in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid, adjusting respiration accordingly.
4. Stretch receptors:
These receptors are found in the airways and visceral pleura, monitoring lung expansion and preventing overinflation via the Hering-Breuer reflex.
5. Higher brain centers:
The cerebral cortex can influence respiration voluntarily, such as during speech or breath-holding.