Central neural circuits for coordination of swallowing, breathing, and coughing: predictions from computational modeling and simulation.

The purpose of this article is to update the otolaryngologic community on recent developments in the basic understanding of how cough, swallow, and breathing are controlled. These behaviors are coordinated to occur at specific times relative to one another to minimize the risk of aspiration. The control system that generates and coordinates these behaviors is complex, and advanced computational modeling methods are useful tools to elucidate its function.