Stretch receptors and peripheral chemoreceptors send afferent impulses regarding ventilation to which location in the brain?
A)Pneumotaxic center in the pons
B)Apneustic center in the pons
C)Dorsal respiratory group (DRG) in the medulla oblongata
D)Ventral respiratory group (VRG) in the medulla oblongata

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The respiratory center is made up of several groups of neurons located bilaterally in the brainstem: the DRG, the VRG, the pneumotaxic center, and the apneustic center. The basic automatic rhythm of respiration is set by the VRG, a cluster of inspiratory nerve cells located in the medulla that sends efferent impulses to the diaphragm and inspiratory intercostal muscles. The DRG, also located in the medulla, receives afferent impulses from peripheral chemoreceptors in the carotid and aortic bodies; from mechanical, neural, and chemical stimuli; and from receptors in the lungs, and it alters breathing patterns to restore normal blood gases. The pneumotaxic center and apneustic center, situated in the pons, do not generate primary rhythm, but rather act as modifiers of the rhythm established by the medullary centers.

Stretch Receptors and Peripheral Chemoreceptors Send Afferent Impulses Regarding Ventilation