How is respiration regulated ?
The respiration is regulated in the following ways :
The neural system is involved in regulating the respiration.
i. Respiratory rhythm centre - A specialised centre present in the medulla region of the brain is primarily responsible for the regulation of respiration.
ii. Pneumotaxic centre - in the pons region of the brain moderates the functions of the respiratory rhythm centre. Neural signal from this centre can reduce the duration of inspiration and thereby alter the respiratory rate.
iii. A chemosensitive area situated adjacent to the rhythm centre which is highly sensitive to CO2 and hydrogen ions. Increase in these substances can activate the centre which signals the rhythm centre to make the necessary adjustments in the respiratory process by which these substances can be eliminated.
iv. Aortic arch and carotid artery receptore also recognise changes in CO2 and H+ concentration and send necessary signals to the rhythm centre for necessary actions. Oxygen plays a vital role in the regulation of respiratory rhythm.
Define oxygen dissociation curve. Can you suggest any reason for its sigmoidal pattern ?