VPB 121: Veterinary Physiology - II (2+1)

PNEUMOTAXIC AND APNEUSTIC AREA

• Pneumotaxic centre believed to modulate respiratory center sensitivity to inputs that activate termination of inspiration and facilitate expiration .
• Apneustic centre believed to be associated with deep inspirations.
• The pneumotaxic area, also called the pontine respiratory group, sends inhibitory signals to the inspiratory area. These signals primarily function to prevent overfilling of the lungs.
• Conversely, the apneustic area located in the lower pons sends stimulatory signals to the inspiratory area that prolongs inspiration.
• The pneumotaxic area can override the apneustic area. Impulses going to the respiratory center (afferent impulses) from several receptor sources have been identified. Importantly the Hering-Breuer reflexes.