The respiratory center is located in the lower part of the human brain

One of the vital functions of the human body is the respiratory function. This physiological effect is fully automated and is regulated by the CNS (central nervous system) with the help of a respiratory center. The respiratory center is located in the lower part of the brain. In a calm state, a healthy person does not notice his breathing, although filling the lungs with air (inhaling), and then releasing them from the already exhausted air (exhalation) is a rather complex process, accompanied by rhythmic movements of the intercostal muscles as well as the muscles of the diaphragm. The question of where the respiratory center is located has long been the subject of discussions in the scientific community, since the respiratory function of the body has several physiological mechanisms and can be controlled both from the brain and from the spinal cord.

Breathing and Metabolism

Breathing provides the body metabolic gas exchange, which involves two chemical compounds: oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). With an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood , the central nervous system sends a pulse that activates the breathing, while the influx of oxygen increases. Conversely, in the case of an over-saturation of the body with oxygen, inhibition of the respiratory function occurs, the number of contractions of the thorax decreases, and oxygen begins to enter the blood in a minimal amount. Thus, the balance of gas exchange is maintained in the body.

15 cuts per minute

In the subordinate to the central nervous system there are two groups of neurons, they are in the respiratory center, and the respiratory center is located in the so-called medulla oblongata. Both groups of neurons perform one function, and this function consists of two parts, inhaling and exhaling. The first group includes inspiratory neurons, responsible for inhalation, and the second group includes expiratory neurons responsible for exhalation. Both are activated in turn, sending work impulses in a certain rhythm (usually 15 cuts per minute), which ensures the optimal mode of gas exchange in the body. Impulses pass through a pneumotactic center located in the brain region called the "variolium bridge", which is located above the medulla oblongata. Since the respiratory center itself is located in the medulla oblongata, a complex two-stage impulse transmission operates in the body.

Breath and exhale

Excited inspiratory neurons reach the intercostal musculature and cause it to contract, while the muscles of the diaphragm also begin to contract. There is an inhalation that delivers another portion of oxygen to the body. When breathing in, the lungs expand, the receptors located in the pulmonary lobes come into motion. They, in turn, send impulses to the medulla oblongata. The respiratory center takes impulses and turns them into a brake for inspiratory neurons, which lose their activity. The expiratory neurons of the respiratory center begin to be excited. They cause the reaction of a group of muscles responsible for contraction of the chest, and thus exhale.

Emotions and breathing

In addition to inspiratory and expiratory neurons, the respiratory process is influenced by other factors. Since the respiratory center is located in one of the brain regions, it is susceptible to a variety of concomitant factors. Breathing can increase from physical exertion, emotional experiences, feelings of fear or danger. The activity of the respiratory center also depends on the hormonal state of the organism. But in any case, there is a regulation of metabolic processes in the human body by enriching the blood with oxygen.