title: Respiratory circuits: development, function and models.
abstract: Breathing is a rhythmic motor behavior generated and controlled by hindbrain neuronal networks. Respiratory motor output arises from two distinct, but functionally interacting, rhythmogenic networks: the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) and the retrotrapezoïd nucleus/parafacial respiratory group (RTN/pFRG). This review outlines recent advances in delineating the genetic specification of the neuronal constituents of these two rhythmogenic networks, their respective roles in respiratory function and how they interact to constitute a functional respiratory circuit ensemble. The often lethal consequences of disruption to these networks found in naturally occurring developmental disorders, transgenic animals, and highly specific lesion studies are described. In addition, we discuss how recent computational models enhance our understanding of how respiratory networks generate and regulate respiratory behavior.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202-3830, USA.
authors.forename: Nicholas M
authors.initials: NM
authors.lastname: Mellen
authors.forename: Muriel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Thoby-Brisson
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000502:physiology*; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D012125:Respiratory Center / Q000166:cytology* / Q000502:physiology*