INTERRELATIONS OF THE RESPIRATORY CENTERS IN THE CAT

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Abstract
Combined weak stimulation of the inspiratory centers in either half of the medulla yielded responses greater than the sum of the reactions obtained from either half alone, and with stronger currents maximal inspiration was obtained from one half of the medulla, no added effect resulting from combined stimulation of the other half. Direct spread of current was negligible, and some arrangement facilitating the spread of excitation within the center must be present. Combined stimulation of inspiratory and expiratory centers revealed that each exerted a reciprocal inhibition upon the effects of the other, the inspiratory influence being dominant. With various combinations of stimuli this reciprocal inhibition could be utilized in driving respiration in a number of ways. Inspiratory cramp or apneusis, induced by pontile decerebration and blocking the vagi, closely resembled the responses to stimulation of the inspiratory center. Stimulation of the inspiratory center during apneusis increased inspiration and following stimulation the increased amplitude was maintained. After more marked stimulation the inspiratory cramp was abolished, however, and then gradually restored. Apneusis apparently represented the activity of the inspiratory center under conditions of release. Apneusis could be broken down into rhythmic respiration by successive stimulation of the expiratory center, or by central stimulation of the blocked vagi.

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