Which of the following is true about the main respiratory control neurons?
High-Yield Explanation
The main respiratory control neurons called the Pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BOTC), are located in the medulla. Pre-Botzinger complex (pre-BOTC) is located on the either side of the medulla, between the nucleus ambiguus and the lateral reticular nucleus. They send out regular bursts of impulses to inspiratory muscles phrenic nerve during quiet respiration. Option A: Expiration is passive during quiet breathing. There is no discharge of any neurons. Option B: Pain stimulates respiration. There are NK1 receptors and m-opiod receptors in Pre-Botzinger complex, and, in vivo, substance P stimulates and opioids inhibit respiration. Option C: Impulses from cerebral coex also influence the Pre-Botzinger complex. Ref: Ganong&;s Review of Medical Physiology 26th edition Pgno: 645-657