Regulation of Respiration - Outline

Description:

The rate and rhythm of respiration can be regulated according to the demands of the body tissues. The regulation of the respiratory system is done by the neural system. Oxygen do not play significant role in the regulation of respiratory rhythm.

Regions controlling respiratory rhythm

• Medulla − A special centre of the brain called medulla is responsible for the regulation of the respiratory system.

• Pneumotaxic Centre − A region at the pons region of the brain called pneumotaxic centre can moderate the functions of the respiratory rhythm centre. Signals from this centre can reduce the inspiration rate and hence alter the respiratory rate.

• Chemosensitive Region − Situated adjacent to the rhythm centre and is highly sensitive to CO₂ and hydrogen ions. Increase of these molecules can activate the centre which can in turn signal the rhythm centre make necessary adjustments so that the excess of these molecules can be eliminated.

• Receptors − Receptors associated with aortic arch and carotid artery can recognise changes in CO₂ and H⁺ concentration. Based on the changes it sends signals to rhythm centre for remedial actions.