Neural control of ventilation

Question 1

Central chemoreceptors

Peripheral chemorecptors

Medullary rhythmicity area (groups of neurons);
DRG

VRG

Answer 1

in the medulla oblongata. Respond to CO2 and pH.

are in carotid and aortic bodies. Respond to PO2, PCO2
and pH.

dorsal respiratory group sets the rhythm and stimulates muscles of inspiration.

ventral respiratory group are involved in forced
inspiration/expiration.

Question 2

Pneumotaxic area

Hering-Breuer reflex

Spirometer

Answer 2

influences DRG by regulating the duration of inspiration.

prevents the over-inflation of the lungs, controlled by stretch receptors in the visceral pleura, bronchioles and alveoli. When the lungs are too inflated, sends impulses via the vagus nerve to the pneumotaxic centre, leads to a shortening of the duration of inspiration.

can be used to measure lung volumes and capacities.