Medullary respiratory center

The medullary respiratory center, located in the medulla oblongata, is the primary neural network controlling automatic breathing. It consists mainly of the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG). The DRG primarily controls inspiration, integrating information from peripheral chemoreceptors and stretch receptors, while the VRG is involved in forced breathing and expiratory control. This center is essential for maintaining rhythmic respiration and adjusts the rate and depth of breathing in response to chemical, mechanical, emotional, and conscious signals. Injury or dysfunction of the medullary respiratory center can result in severe breathing disorders requiring medical intervention.

Other names

Respiratory center (medullary)Medullary respiratory networkMedulla respiratory generator