Inspiratory neurons that are activated when inspiration is inhibited behaviorally.

Respiration can be automatic or controlled behaviorally. Behavioral control in the cat occurs, at least in part, through control of the brainstem respiratory neurons that constitute the automatic system. Thus, when inspiration is inhibited behaviorally, inspiratory neurons in the medulla are inactivated. Reported herein are data on inspiratory cells, located in both the dorsal and ventral respiratory groups, that were activated when other inspiratory cells there were inhibited behaviorally. During spontaneous breathing, their activity showed much variability unattributable to the respiratory cycle--indicating that they receive a considerable non-respiratory input. These cells might act as the interface through which behavioral inhibition of inspiration occurs.