Functional properties of the paraFacial Respiratory group within the brainstem respiratory network

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Respiratory activity is generated by rhythmically active nerve cells (neurons) located in the lower brainstem (medulla); these neurons control the continuous rhythmic contraction of respiratory muscles from birth until the last breath of life. For a number of years, the preBötzinger Complex (preBötC), a group of inspiratory neurons in the medulla, has been thought to be the only system that underlies respiration. In this model, inspiration is the active phase of the respiratory cycle. Recent evidence, however, has shown that a second region, the para Facial Respiratory Group (pFRG), may also have a key function in respiratory rhythmogenesis and this area has been specifically proposed to have a critical role in the generation of expiratory activity (active recruitment of expiratory muscles), whereas preBötC is necessary for inspiration.