Chapter 23

The Respiratory
System

Lecture Presentation by
Lee Ann Frederick
University of Texas at Arlington

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An Introduction to the Respiratory System
The Respiratory System
Cells produce energy
For maintenance, growth, defense, and division
Through mechanisms that use oxygen and
produce carbon dioxide
C6H12O6 + O2 CO2 + H2O + ATP + Heat

Oxygen
Is obtained from the air by diffusion across
delicate exchange surfaces of lungs

Is carried to cells by the cardiovascular system,

which also returns carbon dioxide to the lungs
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Processes of Respiration

Pulmonary ventilation (breathing)-

movement of air into and out Respiratory
of lungs system
External respiration-O2 and CO2
exchange between lungs and blood
Transport-O2 and CO2 in blood
Internal respiration-O2 and CO2 Circulatory
exchange between systemic blood system
vessels and tissues

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23-1 Components of the Respiratory System

Five Functions of the Respiratory System

1. Provides extensive gas exchange surface

area between air and circulating blood
2. Moves air to and from exchange surfaces of
lungs
3. Protects respiratory surfaces from outside
environment
4. Produces sounds
5. Participates in olfactory sense

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23-1 Components of the Respiratory System
Organization of the Respiratory System
Anatomical division of the respiratory system:
Upper respiratory system above the larynx
Lower respiratory system below the larynx

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23-1 Components of the Respiratory System

Physiological divisions of the Respiratory Tract

Consists of a conducting portion
From nasal cavity to terminal bronchioles

Consists of a respiratory portion

The respiratory bronchioles and alveoli

Alveoli
Are air-filled pockets within the lungs
Where all gas exchange takes place

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Figure 23-1 The Structures of the Respiratory System.

Upper Respiratory System

Nose
Nasal cavity
Sinuses
Tongue
Pharynx
Esophagus

Lower Respiratory System

Clavicle
Larynx

Trachea

Bronchus

Bronchioles
Smallest bronchioles

Ribs

Right Left
lung lung

Alveoli

Diaphragm

Alveoli: where gas

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exchange takes place
23-1 Components of the Respiratory System
The Respiratory Mucosa - lines the
conducting portion of respiratory system
Consists of:
An epithelial layer
Psudostratified ciliated columnar
An areolar layer called the lamina propria

Alveolar Epithelium gas exchange

Is a very delicate, simple squamous epithelium
Contains scattered and specialized cells
Lines exchange surfaces of alveoli
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The Lamina Propria
Underlying layer of areolar tissue that supports
the respiratory epithelium
In the upper respiratory system, trachea,
and bronchi
It contains mucous glands that secrete
onto epithelial surface

In the conducting portion of lower respiratory

system
It contains smooth muscle cells that
encircle lumen of bronchioles
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Figure 23-2a The Respiratory Epithelium of the Nasal Cavity and Conducting System.

Superficial view SEM 1647

a A surface view of the epithelium. The cilia of

the epithelial cells form a dense layer that
resembles a shag carpet. The movement of
these cilia propels mucus across the
epithelial surface.
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Figure 23-2b The Respiratory Epithelium of the Nasal Cavity and Conducting System.

Movement
of mucus Ciliated pseudostratified columnar
to pharynx
epithelial cell
Mucous cell
Stem cell

Mucus layer

Lamina propria

b
A diagrammatic view of the
respiratory
epithelium of the trachea, showing the direction
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of mucus transport inferior to the pharynx.
23-1 Components of the Respiratory System
The Respiratory Defense System
Consists of a series of filtration mechanisms
Removes particles and pathogens
Mucous cells and mucous glands: produce
mucus that bathes exposed surfaces
Cilia: sweep debris trapped in mucus toward
the pharynx (mucus escalator)
Filtration: in nasal cavity removes large
particles
Alveolar macrophages: engulf small particles
that reach lungs
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23-1 Components of the Respiratory System

Components of the Respiratory Defense System

Mucous cells and mucous glands
Produce mucus that bathes exposed surfaces
Cilia
Sweep debris trapped in mucus toward the pharynx
(mucus escalator)
Filtration in nasal cavity removes large particles
Alveolar macrophages engulf small particles that
reach lungs

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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract
The Nose
Air enters the respiratory system
Through nostrils or external nares
Into nasal vestibule: nasal hairs are the first
particle filtration system

The Nasal Cavity

The nasal septum: divides nasal cavity into left
and right
Superior portion of nasal cavity is the olfactory
region: sense of smell
Mucous secretions from paranasal sinus and
tears: cleans and moistens the nasal cavity
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Paranasal Sinuses

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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract
Air Flow
From vestibule to internal nares
Through superior, middle, and inferior
meatuses
Meatuses are constricted passageways that
produce air turbulence
Warm and humidify incoming air
Trap particles

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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract

The Palates
Hard palate
Forms floor of nasal cavity
Separates nasal and oral cavities

Soft palate
Extends posterior to hard palate
Divides superior nasopharynx from lower
pharynx

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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract
Air Flow
Nasal cavity opens into nasopharynx through
internal nares

The Nasal Mucosa

Warms and humidifies inhaled air for arrival at
lower respiratory organs = conditioning

Breathing through mouth bypasses

this important step

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Figure 23-3a The Structures of the Upper Respiratory System.

Dorsum
nasi

Nasal
Apex cartilages

External
nares

a The nasal cartilages and external

landmarks on the nose
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Figure 23-3b The Structures of the Upper Respiratory System.

Ethmoidal Cranial cavity

air cell
Frontal sinus

Superior
nasal concha
Superior
meatus
Middle nasal
Nasal septum
concha
Perpendicular Middle meatus
plate of ethmoid
Maxillary sinus
Vomer
Inferior nasal
Hard palate concha
Inferior meatus

Tongue

b A frontal section through the head, showing the

meatuses and the maxillary sinuses and air cells
of the ethmoidal labyrinth
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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract

The Pharynx
A chamber shared by digestive and respiratory
systems
Extends from internal nares to entrances to larynx
and esophagus
Divided into three parts

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23-2 Upper Respiratory Tract

The Nasopharynx
Superior portion of pharynx
Contains pharyngeal tonsils and openings to left
and right auditory tubes
The Oropharynx
Middle portion of pharynx
Communicates with oral cavity
The Laryngopharynx
Inferior portion of pharynx
Extends from hyoid bone to entrance of larynx and
esophagus
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The upper respiratory tract.

Pharynx
Nasopharynx

Oropharynx

Laryngopharynx

Regions of the pharynx

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23-3 The Larynx
Air Flow
From the pharynx enters the larynx
A cartilaginous structure that surrounds the glottis,
which is a narrow opening

Cartilages of the Larynx

Three large, unpaired cartilages form the larynx

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Larynx Functions
Maintain a patent airway cartilages
Thyroid, cricoid, epiglottis

Routes air and food to correct routes

(trachea, esophagus)
As swallow, larynx moves up and epiglottis
protects passage way

Sound production vocal folds vibrate as

air passes through open glottis

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23-3 The Larynx
The Thyroid Cartilage
Is hyaline cartilage
Forms anterior and lateral walls of larynx
Anterior surface called laryngeal prominence, or
Adams apple

The Cricoid Cartilage

Is hyaline cartilage
Forms posterior portion of larynx

The Epiglottis
Composed of elastic cartilage
Covers the glottis
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23-3 The Larynx
Cartilage Functions
Thyroid and cricoid cartilages support and
protect:
The glottis (superior opening)
The entrance to trachea (inferior opening)

During swallowing:
The larynx is elevated
The epiglottis folds back over glottis
Prevents entry of food and liquids into
respiratory tract

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23-3 The Larynx
The Larynx Contains Three Pairs of Smaller
Hyaline Cartilages

Open and close

1. Arytenoid cartilages the glottis, assist
2. Corniculate cartilages with the
production of
sound

3. Cuneiform cartilages

Cartileges are bound together by ligaments

extending from the hyoid bone to the superior
portion of the trachea
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Figure 23-4a The Anatomy of the Larynx.

Epiglottis

Lesser cornu

Hyoid bone

Thyrohyoid
ligament

Laryngeal
prominence
Thyroid
Larynx
cartilage

Cricothyroid
ligament
Cricoid cartilage
Cricotracheal
ligament

Trachea
Tracheal
cartilages

a Anterior view
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The larynx.

Epiglottis

Body of hyoid bone

Thyrohyoid
membrane Thyrohyoid membrane

Cuneiform cartilage Fatty pad

Vestibular fold
Corniculate cartilage
(false vocal cord)
Arytenoid cartilage
Thyroid cartilage
Arytenoid muscles Vocal fold
(true vocal cord)
Cricoid cartilage Cricothyroid ligament
Cricotracheal ligament

Tracheal cartilages

Sagittal view; anterior surface to the right

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Ligaments of the Larynx
Vestibular ligaments and vocal ligaments
Extend between thyroid cartilage and arytenoid
cartilages
Are covered by folds of laryngeal epithelium that
project into glottis

The Vestibular Ligaments

Lie within vestibular folds
Protect delicate vocal folds - very elastic = vocal
cords
Sound Production
Air passing through glottis
Vibrates vocal folds
Produces sound waves
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23-3 The Larynx
Sound Production
Sound is varied by:
Tension on vocal folds
Vocal folds involved with sound are known as vocal
cords
Voluntary muscles (position arytenoid cartilage
relative to thyroid cartilage)

Speech is produced by:

Phonation
Sound production at the larynx
Articulation
Modification of sound by other structures
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23-3 The Larynx

The Laryngeal Musculature

The larynx is associated with:
1. Muscles of neck and pharynx
2. Intrinsic muscles
Control vocal folds
Open and close glottis

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Movements of the vocal folds.

Base of tongue

Epiglottis

Vestibular fold (false vocal cord)

Vocal fold (true vocal cord)

Glottis

Inner lining of trachea

Cuneiform cartilage

Corniculate cartilage

Vocal folds in closed position; closed glottis Vocal folds in open position; open glottis

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23-4 The Trachea
The Trachea
Also called the windpipe
Extends from the cricoid cartilage into
mediastinum
Where it branches into right and left
pulmonary bronchi at the carina
Mucosa pseudostratified ciliated columnar
epithelium
The submucosa
Beneath mucosa of trachea
Contains mucous glands
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Figure 23-6b The Anatomy of the Trachea.

Esophagus

Trachealis
muscle

Lumen of Thyroid
trachea gland

Respiratory
epithelium

Tracheal
cartilage
The trachea LM 3

b A cross-sectional view
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23-4 The Trachea
The Tracheal Cartilages
1520 tracheal cartilages
Strengthen and protect airway
Prevent collapse during pressure changes in lungs
Discontinuous where trachea contacts esophagus
Ends of each tracheal cartilage are connected
by:
An elastic ligament and trachealis muscle

The Primary Bronchi

Right and Left Primary Bronchi
Separated by an internal ridge (the carina)
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Figure 23-6a The Anatomy of the Trachea.
Hyoid
bone

Larynx

Trachea

Tracheal
cartilages

Location of carina
Root of (internal ridge)
right lung
Root & Hilum of left lung

Lung
tissue Primary
bronchi

RIGHT LUNG Secondary LEFT LUNG

bronchi
a

A diagrammatic anterior view showing the plane of section

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23-5 The Lungs
The Lungs
Left and right lungs
Are in left and right pleural cavities
The base
Inferior portion of each lung rests on superior
surface of diaphragm
Apex
superior to first rib
Lobes of the lungs
Lungs have lobes separated by deep fissures
PARENCHYMA = functional tissue / part of
organ that does the job
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Conducting zone passages.

Trachea
Apex

Superior lobe
of left lung
Left main
(primary)
bronchus
Superior lobe
of right lung Lobar (secondary)
bronchus

Horizontal fissure Segmental (tertiary)

Cardiac bronchus
notch
Middle lobe
of right lung Oblique fissure

Inferior lobe Inferior lobe

of right lung of left lung
Oblique fissure
Base

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Figure 23-8 The Relationship between the Lungs and Heart (Part 2 of 2).

Pericardial Body of sternum

cavity

Right lung, Ventricles

middle lobe
Oblique fissure Rib
Left lung,
Right pleural superior lobe
cavity
Visceral pleura
Atria
Left pleural cavity
Parietal pleura
Esophagus
Aorta Bronchi
Right lung,
inferior lobe Mediastinum
Spinal cord
Left lung,
inferior lobe

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23-5 The Lungs
A Primary Bronchus- extrapulmonary
Branches to form secondary bronchi (lobar
bronchi)
One secondary bronchus goes to each lobe

Secondary Bronchi - intrapulmonary

Lobar bronchi
Branch to form tertiary bronchi (segmental
bronchi)
Each segmental bronchus
Supplies air to a single bronchopulmonary
segment
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23-5 The Lungs
Bronchopulmonary Segments
The right lung has 10
The left lung has 8 or 9

Bronchial Structure
The walls of primary, secondary, and tertiary
bronchi
Contain progressively less cartilage and
more smooth muscle
Increased smooth muscle tension affects
airway constriction and resistance
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Figure 22.11 A cast of the bronchial tree.
Right lung Left lung

Right
superior Left superior
lobe (3 lobe
segments) (4 segments)

Right
middle
lobe (2
segments)

Right Left inferior

inferior lobe lobe
(5 segments) (5 segments)
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23-5 The Lungs
Pulmonary Lobules
Trabeculae
Fibrous connective tissue partitions from root of
lung
Contain supportive tissues and lymphatic
vessels
Branch repeatedly
Divide lobes into increasingly smaller
compartments
Pulmonary lobules are divided by the smallest
trabecular partitions (interlobular septa)

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23-5 The Lungs
The Bronchioles
Each tertiary bronchus branches into multiple
bronchioles
Bronchioles branch into terminal
bronchioles

One tertiary bronchus forms about 6500

terminal bronchiole
Bronchiole Structure
Bronchioles
Have no cartilage
Are dominated by smooth muscle
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Autonomic Control
Regulates smooth muscle
Controls diameter of bronchioles
Controls airflow and resistance in lungs
Bronchodilation
Dilation of bronchial airways
Caused by sympathetic ANS activation
Reduces resistance
Bronchoconstriction
Constricts bronchi
Parasympathetic ANS activation
Histamine release (allergic reactions)
Asthma excessive stimulation
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23-5 The Lungs
Pulmonary Lobules

Each terminal bronchiole delivers air to a

single pulmonary lobule

Each pulmonary lobule is supplied by

pulmonary arteries and veins

Each terminal bronchiole branches to form

several respiratory bronchioles, where gas
exchange takes place in the alveoli
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Figure 23-9c The Bronchi, Lobules, and Alveoli of the Lung.

Respiratory epithelium
Branch of pulmonary
Bronchiole artery
Bronchial artery (red),
vein (blue), and
nerve (yellow) Smooth muscle
around terminal
bronchiole
Terminal bronchiole

Respiratory
bronchiole
Branch of
pulmonary Elastic fibers
vein around alveoli Arteriole
Lymphatic
Capillary vessel
beds Alveolar duct
Alveoli

Alveolar sac
Interlobular
septum

c The structure of a single pulmonary lobule,

part of a bronchopulmonary segment
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Figure 23-9d The Bronchi, Lobules, and Alveoli of the Lung.

Alveoli

Alveolar sac

Alveolar duct

Lung tissue SEM 125

d SEM of lung tissue showing the
appearance and organization of
the alveoli

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23-5 The Lungs
Alveolar Ducts and Alveoli
Respiratory bronchioles are connected to alveoli along
alveolar ducts
Alveolar ducts end at alveolar sacs
Common chambers connected to many individual
alveoli equalize pressure
Each alveolus has an extensive network of capillaries
Surrounded by elastic fibers help to restore shape
after inspiration
Basement membranes of alveoli & capillaries are
fused to minimize diffusion distance and maximize
contact
Walls 0.5 m thick

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Figure 23-10c Alveolar Organization.

Type II
pneumocyte Type I pneumocyte-
Simple cuboidal simple squamous
Produce surfactant GAS EXCHANGE

Alveolar
macrophage

Elastic
fibers

Alveolar macrophage

Capillary

Endothelial
cell of capillary

c A diagrammatic view of alveolar structure. A single capillary may be

involved in gas exchange with several alveoli simultaneously.
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23-5 The Lungs
Surfactant
Is an oily secretion
Contains phospholipids and proteins
Coats alveolar surfaces and reduces surface
tension

Respiratory Distress Syndrome premature infants

Due to alveolar collapse
Caused when type II pneumocytes do not produce
enough surfactant

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Respiratory Membrane
The thin membrane of alveoli where gas exchange
takes place
NOT respiratory epithelium
Three Layers of the Respiratory Membrane
1. Squamous epithelial cells lining the alveolus
2. Endothelial cells lining an adjacent capillary
3. Fused basement membranes between the
alveolar and endothelial cells
O2 & CO2 diffuse across rapidly b/c they are
small and lipid soluble
Pneumonia fluids leak onto respiratory membrane
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Figure 23-10d Alveolar Organization.

Gas moves between

Red blood cell alveoli and blood by
simple diffusion down
Capillary lumen
concentration gradients.
Capillary Nucleus of
endothelium endothelial cell BLOOD: High CO2,
LOW O2
0.5 m
AIR: LOW CO2,
HIGH O2
Fused Alveolar Surfactant
basement epithelium
membranes
Alveolar air space

d The respiratory membrane, which

consists of an alveolar epithelial cell,
a capillary endothelial cell, and their
fused basement membranes.
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Figure 23-7 The Gross Anatomy of the Lungs.

Boundary between
right and left
Superior lobe pleural cavities
Left lung
Right lung
Superior lobe

Horizontal fissure Oblique fissure

Middle lobe
Fibrous layer
Oblique fissure of pericardium
Inferior lobe
Inferior lobe Falciform ligament

Cut edge of
diaphragm
Liver, Liver,
a Thoracic cavity, anterior view right lobe left lobe

b Lateral Surfaces

The curving anterior and lateral Apex Apex

surfaces of each lung follow the
inner contours of the rib cage.
Superior
lobe

ANTERIOR Superior lobe

Horizontal fissure
Middle The cardiac notch
Oblique fissure lobe accommodates the Oblique
pericardial cavity, fissure
Inferior
which sits to the left
lobe Inferior
of the midline.
lobe

Base Base
Right lung Left lung

c Medial Surfaces

The medial surfaces, which contain the

Apex Apex
hilum, have more irregular shapes. The
medial surfaces of both lungs have Superior Bronchus Superior
lobe Groove
grooves that mark the positions of the lobe
POSTERIOR for aorta
great vessels of the heart.
Pulmonary
Pulmonary artery artery
The hilum of the lung
Pulmonary veins is a groove that allows Pulmonary
passage of the primary veins
Horizontal fissure bronchi, pulmonary
Inferior
Middle vessels, nerves, and
lobe
lobe lymphatics. Oblique
Inferior fissure
Oblique fissure
lobe
Bronchus
Diaphragmatic
Base Base surface

Right lung Left lung

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Figure 23-9b The Bronchi, Lobules, and Alveoli of the Lung.

Trachea
Cartilage
plates

Left primary
bronchus

Visceral pleura
Secondary
bronchus

Tertiary bronchi

Smaller
bronchi

Bronchioles

Terminal
bronchiole
Alveoli in a Respiratory
pulmonary bronchiole
lobule

Bronchopulmonary segment

b The branching pattern of bronchi

in the left lung, simplified
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Figure 23-10a Alveolar Organization.

Respiratory bronchiole
Alveolar duct
Smooth
muscle Alveolus

Alveolar
Elastic sac
fibers

Capillaries

a The basic structure of the distal end of a single

lobule. A network of capillaries, supported by
elastic fibers, surrounds each alveolus. Respiratory
bronchioles are also wrapped by smooth muscle
cells that can change the diameter of these airways.

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Figure 23-10d Alveolar Organization.

Red blood cell

Capillary lumen
Capillary Nucleus of
endothelium endothelial cell

0.5 m

Fused Alveolar Surfactant

basement epithelium
membranes
Alveolar air space

d The respiratory membrane, which

consists of an alveolar epithelial cell,
a capillary endothelial cell, and their
fused basement membranes.
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TWO BLOOD CIRCUITS IN LUNGS

1 Respiratory exchange surfaces (parenchyma)

receive blood
From arteries of pulmonary circuit
From pulmonary artery
A capillary network surrounds each alveolus as
part of the respiratory membrane
Nourishes the alveolar cells and returns through
the pulmonary veins to the left atrium
Also site of angiotensin-converting enzyme
(ACE)

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23-5 The Lungs
Blood Pressure
In pulmonary circuit is low (30 mm Hg)
Pulmonary vessels are easily blocked by
blood clots, fat, or air bubbles
Causing pulmonary embolism

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23-5 The Lungs
Blood Supply to the Lungs
2 Bronchial arteries branch off of the
thoracic AORTA
Provide oxygen and nutrients to tissues of
conducting passageways of lung
Venous blood bypasses the systemic circuit
and flows into pulmonary veins

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The Pleural Cavities & Pleural Membranes
Two pleural cavities
Are separated by the mediastinum
Each pleural cavity holds one lung and is lined
by a serous membrane the pleura

The pleura has 2 layers

Parietal pleura against thoracic wall
Visceral pleura against the lung
Pleural fluid lubricates space between two
layers
Pleural cavity not really a space LIQUID
HOLDS TWO MEMBRANES TOGETHER
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23-6 Introduction to Gas Exchange
Respiration
Refers to two integrated processes
1. External respiration
Includes all processes involved in exchanging O2 and
CO2 with the environment

2. Internal respiration
Result of cellular respiration
Involves the uptake of O2 and production of CO2 within
individual cells

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Figure 23-11 An Overview of the Key Steps in Respiration.

Respiration
External Respiration Internal Respiration

Pulmonary
ventilation O2 transport Tissues

Gas Gas
diffusion diffusion

Lungs

Gas Gas
diffusion diffusion
CO2 transport

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Three Processes of External Respiration
1. Pulmonary ventilation (breathing)

2. Gas diffusion
Across membranes and capillaries in the lung
and other tissues

3. Transport of O2 and CO2

To and from capillary beds in the alveoli and
in other tissues
Hypoxia = low tissue oxygen levels
Anoxia = zero oxygen
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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Pulmonary Ventilation
Is the physical movement of air in and out of
respiratory tract
Provides alveolar ventilation

The Movement of Air

Atmospheric pressure (atm)
The weight of air
Number of available particles bouncing around
Air moves from high pressure to low so must
change pressure in alveoli compared to
atmosphere
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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Gas Pressure and Volume
Boyles Law
Defines the relationship between gas
pressure and volume
P = 1/V
In a contained gas:
External pressure forces molecules
closer together
Movement of gas molecules exerts
pressure on container
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Figure 23-12 The Relationship between Gas Pressure and Volume.

14 gas
molecules in
each container
a If you decrease the volume of the
container, collisions occur more
often per unit of time, increasing
the pressure of the gas.

b If you increase the volume,

fewer collisions occur per unit
of time, because it takes longer
for a gas molecule to travel from
one wall to another. As a result,
the gas pressure inside the
container decreases.

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Air flows from area of higher pressure to
area of lower pressure

A Respiratory Cycle
Consists of:
An inspiration (inhalation)
An expiration (exhalation)
Pulmonary Ventilation
Causes volume changes that create changes
in pressure
Volume of thoracic cavity changes
With expansion or contraction of diaphragm
or rib cage
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Figure 23-13a Mechanisms of Pulmonary Ventilation.

Ribs and 1 As the rib cage is elevated or

sternum the diaphragm is depressed,
the volume of the thoracic
elevate cavity increases.

2 Via the pleural membranes

the lungs are connected to the
thoracic wall so.
Diaphragm
contracts 3 Lungs increase their volume

4 This lowers pulmonary air

pressure BELOW atmospheric
air pressure (Boyles law),
a so..

5 Air rushes IN
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Figure 23-13b Mechanisms of Pulmonary Ventilation.

Thoracic wall

Parietal pleura

Pleural fluid
Pleural
cavity Visceral
pleura
Lung
Cardiac
notch
Diaphragm

Poutside = Pinside
Pressure outside and inside are
equal, so no air movement occurs

b At rest, prior to inhalation.

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Figure 23-13c Mechanisms of Pulmonary Ventilation.

Volume increases
Poutside > Pinside
Pressure inside decreases, so air flows in

c Inhalation. Elevation of the rib cage and

contraction of the diaphragm increase the size
of the thoracic cavity. Pressure within the thoracic
cavity decreases, and air flows into the lungs.
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Figure 23-13d Mechanisms of Pulmonary Ventilation.

Volume decreases
Poutside < Pinside
Pressure inside increases, so air flows out

d Exhalation. When the rib cage returns to its

original position and the diaphragm relaxes, the
volume of the thoracic cavity decreases. Pressure
increases, and air moves out of the lungs.
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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Compliance
An indicator of expandability
Low compliance requires greater force
High compliance requires less force

Factors That Affect Compliance

Connective tissue structure of the lungs
Level of surfactant production
Mobility of the thoracic cage: SPINE

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Pressure Changes during Inhalation and
Exhalation
Can be measured inside or outside the lungs
Normal atmospheric pressure (sea level)
1 atm = 760 mm Hg
Air is a mixture of :
Nitrogen (N2) 597 mm Hg (78.6 %)

Oxygen (O2) 159 mm Hg (20.9 %)

Other gasses and water vapor (H2O)
4 mm Hg (0.5%)
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 0.3 mm Hg (0.04 %)
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The Intrapulmonary Pressure
Also called intra-alveolar pressure
Is relative to atmospheric pressure
Negative pressure is less than Patm
Positive pressure is more than Patm
In relaxed breathing, the difference between
atmospheric pressure and intrapulmonary
pressure is small
About 1 mm Hg on inhalation or 1 mm Hg on
exhalation

Maximum Intrapulmonary Pressure

Maximum straining, a dangerous activity, can
increase range
From 30 mm Hg to 100 mm Hg
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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
The Intrapleural Pressure
Pressure in space between parietal and
visceral pleura
Averages 4 mm Hg
Maximum of 18 mm Hg
Remains below atmospheric pressure
throughout respiratory cycle
PREVENTS lungs from collapsing

Pneumothorax allows air into pleural cavity

Atelectasis (also called a collapsed lung) is a
result of pneumothorax
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Table 23-1 The Four Most Common Methods of Reporting Gas Pressures.

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
The Respiratory Cycle
Cyclical changes in intrapleural pressure
operate the respiratory pump
Which aids in venous return to heart

Tidal Volume (VT)

Amount of air moved in and out of lungs in
a single respiratory cycle

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Figure 23-14 Pressure and Volume Changes during Inhalation and Exhalation.

INHALATION EXHALATION
+2
Trachea Intrapulmonary
pressure
(mm Hg) +1

0 a Changes in intrapulmonary
pressure during a single
1 respiratory cycle
Bronchi
Intrapleural 2
Lung pressure
(mm Hg)
3

4 b Changes in intrapleural
Diaphragm
pressure during a single
5 respiratory cycle

6
Right pleural Left pleural
cavity cavity Tidal
volume
(mL) 500

250
c A plot of tidal volume, the
amount of air moving into
and out of the lungs during a
single respiratory cycle
0 1 2 3 4
Time (sec)

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation

The Mechanics of Breathing

Inhalation
Always active
Quiet & forced breathing

Exhalation
Active (forced) or passive (quiet)

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Muscles Used in Inhalation
Diaphragm
Contraction draws air into lungs
75 percent of normal air movement
External intercostal muscles
Assist inhalation
25 percent of normal air movement
Accessory muscles assist in elevating ribs when
increased respiration is necessary
Sternocleidomastoid
Serratus anterior
Pectoralis minor
Scalene muscles

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Figure 23-15 Respiratory Muscles and Pulmonary Ventilation (Part 1 of 4).

The Respiratory Muscles

The most important skeletal muscles involved in respiratory movements are the
diaphragm and the external intercostals. These muscles are the primary
respiratory muscles and are active during normal breathing at rest. The
accessory respiratory muscles become active when the depth and frequency
of respiration must be increased markedly.
Accessory Primary
Respiratory Muscles Respiratory Muscles
Sternocleidomastoid External intercostal
muscle muscles
Scalene muscles
Accessory
Pectoralis minor Respiratory Muscles
muscle
Internal intercostal
Serratus anterior muscles
muscle Transversus thoracis
muscle
Primary
Respiratory Muscles External oblique
muscle
Diaphragm
Rectus abdominis

Internal oblique
muscle
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Respiratory movements are classified y pattern of
muscle activity
Muscle used in Exhalation QUIET breathing
Eupnea
Muscles just relax
Thorax gets smaller increased pressure air rushes
out to atmosphere (Boyles law)

Muscles Used in Exhalation FORCED breathing

Hyperpnea
Internal intercostal and transversus thoracic muscles
Depress the ribs
Abdominal muscles
Compress the abdomen, force diaphragm upward
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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation

Quiet Breathing (Eupnea)

Involves active inhalation and passive exhalation
Diaphragmatic breathing or deep breathing
Is dominated by diaphragm
Costal breathing or shallow breathing
Is dominated by rib cage movements

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation

Elastic Rebound
When inhalation muscles relax
Elastic components of muscles and lungs recoil
Returning lungs and alveoli to original position

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
The Respiratory Minute Volume (VE)
Amount of air moved per minute
Is calculated by:
VE = respiratory rate tidal volume
Measures pulmonary ventilation
Analogous to CO = SV x HR

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Alveolar Ventilation (VA)
Only a part of respiratory minute volume reaches
alveolar exchange surfaces
Alveoli contain less O2, more CO2 than atmospheric
air
Volume of air remaining in conducting passages is
anatomic dead space

Alveolar ventilation is the amount of air reaching

alveoli each minute
Calculated as:
VA = (tidal volume anatomic dead space) respiratory rate

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Relationships among VT, VE, and VA
Determined by respiratory rate and tidal volume
For a given respiratory rate:
Increasing tidal volume increases alveolar
ventilation rate
For a given tidal volume:
Increasing respiratory rate increases alveolar
ventilation

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23-7 Pulmonary Ventilation
Lung function tests measures rates and amounts
of air movement
Respiratory Performance and Volume Relationships
Total lung volume is divided into a series of volumes
and capacities useful in diagnosing problems

Volumes = individual measurements

Capacities = sum or difference of 2 or more volumes

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Four pulmonary volumes:
Resting Tidal Volume (Vt)
Amount of air inhaled or exhaled during a normal
respiratory cycle
Expiratory Reserve Volume (ERV)
Amount of air exhaled after a normal exhalation
Residual Volume
Amount of air remaining in the lungs after maximal
exhalation
Minimal volume (in a collapsed lung)
Inspiratory Reserve Volume (IRV)
Amount of air that can be inhaled after a normal
inspiration
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Four Calculated Respiratory Capacities
1. Inspiratory capacity
Tidal volume + inspiratory reserve volume
2. Functional residual capacity (FRC)
Expiratory reserve volume + residual volume
3. Vital capacity
Expiratory reserve volume + tidal volume +
inspiratory reserve volume
4. Total lung capacity
Vital capacity + residual volume

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Figure 23-16 Pulmonary Volumes and Capacities.

Pulmonary Volumes and Capacities (adult male)

6000
Sex Differences
Tidal volume Inspiratory Inspiratory
(VT = 500 mL) reserve capacity Males Females
volume (IRV)
IRV 3300 1900 Inspiratory
Vital capacity
VT 500 500
capacity
Vital
capacity ERV 1000 700 Functional
Residual volume 1200 1100 residual
Volume (mL)

capacity
2700 Total lung
capacity Total lung capacity 6000 mL 4200 mL
2200

Expiratory
reserve
volume (ERV) Functional
residual
1200 capacity
(FRC)
Residual
volume
Minimal volume
(30120 mL)
0
Time

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Figure 23-15 Respiratory Muscles and Pulmonary Ventilation (Part 2 of 4).

The Mechanics of Breathing

Pulmonary ventilation, air movement into
and out of the respiratory system, occurs by
changing the volume of the lungs. The
changes in volume take place through the
contraction of skeletal
muscles. As the ribs
are elevated or Ribs and
the diaphragm is sternum
depressed, the elevate
volume of the
thoracic cavity
increases and air
moves into the
lungs. The outward Diaphragm
movement of the contracts
ribs as they are
elevated resembles
the outward swing
KEY
of a raised bucket
handle. = Movement of rib cage

= Movement of diaphragm

= Muscle contraction
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Figure 23-15 Respiratory Muscles and Pulmonary Ventilation (Part 3 of 4).

Respiratory Movements
Respiratory muscles may be used in various combinations, depending on the
volume of air that must be moved in or out of the lungs. In quiet breathing,
inhalation involves muscular contractions, but exhalation is a passive process.
Forced breathing calls upon the accessory muscles to assist with inhalation,
and exhalation involves contraction by the transversus thoracis, internal
intercostal, and rectus abdominis muscles.

Inhalation
Inhalation is an Accessory Respiratory
active process. Muscles (Inhalation)
It primarily Sternocleidomastoid
involves the muscle
diaphragm Scalene muscles
and the
external Pectoralis minor muscle
intercostal
Serratus anterior muscle
muscles,
with
assistance Primary Respiratory
from the Muscles (Inhalation)
accessory
respiratory External intercostal
muscles as muscles
needed.
Diaphragm

KEY
= Movement of rib cage

= Movement of diaphragm

= Muscle contraction
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Figure 23-15 Respiratory Muscles and Pulmonary Ventilation (Part 4 of 4).

Respiratory Movements
Respiratory muscles may be used in various combinations, depending on the
volume of air that must be moved in or out of the lungs. In quiet breathing,
inhalation involves muscular contractions, but exhalation is a passive process.
Forced breathing calls upon the accessory muscles to assist with inhalation,
and exhalation involves contraction by the transversus thoracis, internal
intercostal, and rectus abdominis muscles.

Exhalation
During forced
Accessory
exhalation, the Respiratory
transversus thoracis Muscles
and internal (Exhalation)
intercostal muscles
actively depress
the ribs, and Transversus
thoracis
the abdominal
muscle
muscles
(external and
internal obliques,
transversus
abdominis, and Internal
rectus abdominis) intercostal
muscles
compress the
abdomen and push Rectus
the diaphragm up. abdominis

KEY
= Movement of rib cage

= Movement of diaphragm

= Muscle contraction
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23-8 Gas Exchange
Gas Exchange
Occurs between blood and alveolar air across the
respiratory membrane
Depends on:
1. Rate of diffusion depends on physical principles,
or gas laws
Boyle: pressure inversely related to volume
Diffusion of molecules between gas and liquid
(Henry)
2. Diffusion occurs in response to concentration
gradients
Partial pressures of the gases (Dalton)
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GAS LAW
Daltons Law of Partial Pressures: In a mixture of
gasses, the total pressure of the gas is equal to
the sum of the partial pressures for each gas.
Air is a mixture of gasses
Mostly nitrogen and oxygen

Gas A Gas B Gas Mixture AB

P = 10
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P=5 P = 15
23-8 Gas Exchange
Daltons Law and Partial Pressures
Atmospheric pressure (760 mm Hg)
Produced by air molecules bumping into each other
Each gas contributes to the total pressure
In proportion to its number of molecules (Daltons law)

Daltons Law and Partial Pressures

Composition of Air
Nitrogen (N2) 78.6 %, 597 mm Hg
Oxygen (O2) 20.9 %, 159 mm Hg
Water vapor (H2O) 0.5 %, 3.7 mm Hg
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 0.04 %, 0.3 mm Hg
Sum of all gases in mixture adds up to 760 mm Hg at
1 atmosphere
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Figure 23-17 Henrys Law and the Relationship between Solubility and Pressure.

Example
Soda is put into
the can under
pressure, and the
gas (carbon
dioxide) is in
solution at
equilibrium.

a Increasing the pressure drives gas molecules into

solution until an equilibrium is established.

Example
Opening the can of
soda relieves the
pressure, and
bubbles form as
the dissolved gas
leaves the solution.

b When the gas pressure decreases, dissolved

gas molecules leave the solution until a new
equilibrium is reached.

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23-8 Gas Exchange

Diffusion between Liquids and Gases

Henrys Law
When gas under pressure comes in contact with
liquid:
Gas dissolves in liquid until equilibrium is reached
At a given temperature:
Amount of a gas in solution is proportional to partial
pressure of that gas
The actual amount of a gas in solution (at given
partial pressure and temperature):
Depends on the solubility of that gas in that
particular liquid

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23-8 Gas Exchange
Solubility in Body Fluids
CO2 is very soluble
O2 is less soluble
N2 has very low solubility

KNOW PCO PO Values on this &

2 2
other slides:
Normal Partial Pressures in pulmonary vein plasma
PCO = 40 mm Hg
2
PO = 100 mm Hg
2

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23-8 Gas Exchange
Five Reasons for Efficiency of Gas Exchange

1. Substantial differences in partial pressure across

the respiratory membrane
2. Distances involved in gas exchange are short
3. O2 and CO2 are lipid soluble: diffuse
4. Total surface area is large
5. Blood flow and airflow are coordinated

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23-8 Gas Exchange
Partial Pressures in Alveolar Air and Alveolar
Capillaries

Blood arriving in pulmonary arteries has:

Low PO
2
High PCO
2

The concentration gradient causes:

O2 to enter blood
CO2 to leave blood

Rapid exchange allows blood and alveolar air to

reach equilibrium

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Partial Pressures in the Systemic Circuit
Oxygenated blood mixes with deoxygenated blood
from conducting passageways
Lowers the PO2 of blood entering systemic circuit
(drops to about 95 mm Hg)

Partial Pressures in the Systemic Circuit

Interstitial Fluid
PO 40 mm Hg
2
PCO 45 mm Hg
2
Concentration gradient in peripheral capillaries
is opposite of lungs
CO2 diffuses into blood
O2 diffuses out of blood
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Figure 23-18a An Overview of Respiratory Processes and Partial Pressures in Respiration.

a External Respiration

PO = 40 Alveolus
2
PCO2 = 45
Respiratory
membrane

Systemic Pulmonary PO = 100

circuit circuit 2
PCO2 = 40

Pulmonary
capillary
PO = 100
2
PCO2 = 40

Systemic
circuit

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Figure 23-18b An Overview of Respiratory Processes and Partial Pressures in Respiration.

Systemic Pulmonary
circuit circuit

Internal Respiration
b

Interstitial fluid

Systemic
circuit
PO2 = 95
PCO2 = 40

PO2 = 40
PCO2 = 45

Systemic
PO2 = 40
capillary
PCO2 = 45

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Source of Air Nitrogen (N2) Oxygen (O2) Carbon Water Vapor
(760 mm Hg) mm Hg mm Hg Dioxide (CO2) (H2O) mm Hg
mm Hg
Inhaled 597 (78.6 %) 159 (20.9%) 0.3 (0.04%) 3.7 (0.5%)

Alveolar 573 (75.4%) 100 (13.2%) 40 (5.2%) 47 (6.2%)

Exhaled 569 (74.8) 116 (15.3) 28 (3.7 %) 47 (6.2%)

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23-9 Gas Transport
Gas Pickup and Delivery
Blood plasma cannot transport enough O2 or CO2 to
meet physiological needs
REMEMBER LAB 2!!!!!!!!!

Red Blood Cells (RBCs)

Transport O 2 to, and CO2 from, peripheral

tissues
Remove O2 and CO2 from plasma, allowing gases to
diffuse into blood

Oxygen Transport
O2 binds to iron ions in hemoglobin (Hb) molecules
In a reversible reaction
New molecule is called oxyhemoglobin (HbO2)
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23-9 Gas Transport

Hemoglobin Saturation
The percentage of heme units in a hemoglobin
molecule that contain bound oxygen
Environmental Factors Affecting Hemoglobin
PO of blood
2
Blood pH
Temperature
Metabolic activity within RBCs

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23-9 Gas Transport
Oxygen Reserves
O2 diffuses
From peripheral capillaries (high PO )
2
Into interstitial fluid (low PO )
2
Amount of O2 released depends on interstitial PO
2
Up to 3/4 may be reserved by RBCs

Carbon Monoxide (CO) from burning fuels

Binds strongly to hemoglobin
Takes the place of O2
Can result in carbon monoxide poisoning

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23-9 Gas Transport

OxygenHemoglobin Saturation Curve

A graph relating the saturation of hemoglobin to
partial pressure of oxygen
Higher PO results in greater Hb saturation
2
Curve rather than a straight line because Hb
changes shape each time a molecule of O2 is
bound
Each O2 bound makes next O2 binding easier
Allows Hb to bind O2 when O2 levels are low

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23-9 Gas Transport

The OxygenHemoglobin Saturation Curve

Is standardized for normal blood (pH 7.4, 37C)
When pH drops or temperature rises:
More oxygen is released
Curve shifts to right
When pH rises or temperature drops:
Less oxygen is released
Curve shifts to left

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Figure 23-19 An OxygenHemoglobin Saturation Curve.

100

90

80
Oxyhemoglobin (% saturation)

70
P O2 % saturation
60 (mm Hg) of Hb
10 13.5
50 20 35
Interstitial 30 57
40 Tissue 40 75
50 83.5
30 60 89
70 92.7
20 80 94.5
Pulmonary 90 96.5
Capillary 100 97.5
10

0
20 40 60 80 100
P O2 (mm Hg)
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23-9 Gas Transport
Hemoglobin and pH
Bohr effect is the result of pH on hemoglobin-
saturation curve
Caused by CO2
CO2 diffuses into RBC
An enzyme, called carbonic anhydrase, catalyzes
reaction with H2O
Produces carbonic acid (H2CO3)
Dissociates into hydrogen ion (H+) and bicarbonate
ion (HCO3)
Hydrogen ions diffuse out of RBC, lowering pH
shifting curve to the right releasing more O2

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KNOW THIS EQUATION

CO2 + H2O CH2O3 H+ + HCO3-

carbonic falls apart
anhydrase

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Figure 23-20a The Effects of pH and Temperature on Hemoglobin Saturation.

100

80
Oxyhemoglobin (% saturation) 7.6
7.4
7.2

60

40

Normal blood pH range

7.357.45
20

0
20 40 60 80 100
P O2 (mm Hg)
a Effect of pH. When the pH decreases below normal
levels, more oxygen is released; the oxygenhemoglobin
saturation curve shifts to the right. When the pH increases,
less oxygen is released; the curve shifts to the left.
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23-9 Gas Transport
Hemoglobin and Temperature
Temperature increase = hemoglobin releases
more oxygen
Thats a good thing when your skeletal muscles
are active

Temperature decrease = hemoglobin holds

oxygen more tightly
Temperature effects are significant only in active
tissues that are generating large amounts of heat
For example, active skeletal muscles

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Figure 23-20b The Effects of pH and Temperature on Hemoglobin Saturation.

100
10C 20C
38C

43C
80

Oxyhemoglobin (% saturation)
60

40

Normal blood temperature

20 38C

0
20 40 60 80 100
P O2 (mm Hg)
b Effect of temperature. When the temperature
increases, more oxygen is released; the
oxygenhemoglobin saturation curve shifts to the
right.
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23-9 Gas Transport
Hemoglobin and BPG
2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (BPG)
RBCs generate ATP by glycolysis
Forming lactic acid and BPG
BPG directly affects O2 binding and release
More BPG, more oxygen released

BPG levels rise:

When pH increases
When stimulated by certain hormones
If BPG levels are too low:
Hemoglobin will not release oxygen

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23-9 Gas Transport

Fetal Hemoglobin
The structure of fetal hemoglobin
Differs from that of adult Hb
At the same PO :
2
Fetal Hb binds more O2 than adult Hb
Which allows fetus to take O2 from maternal blood

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Fetal hemoglobin

Adult hemoglobin

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23-9 Gas Transport
Carbon Dioxide Transport (CO2)
Is generated as a by-product of aerobic metabolism
(cellular respiration)

CO2 in the bloodstream can be carried three ways

1. Converted to carbonic acid
70% H2CO3
Which dissociates into H+ and bicarbonate (HCO3)
Hydrogen ions bind to hemoglobin
Bicarbonate Ions
Move into plasma by an exchange mechanism (the
chloride shift) that takes in Cl ions without using ATP

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Transport and Exchange of CO2

CO2 combines with water to form carbonic acid

(H2CO3), which quickly dissociates

Occurs primarily in RBCs, where carbonic

anhydrase reversibly and rapidly catalyzes
reaction

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Influence of CO2 on Blood pH
Carbonic acidbicarbonate buffer system
resists changes in blood pH

If H+ concentration in blood rises, excess H+ is

removed by combining with HCO3 H2CO3

If H+ concentration begins to drop, H2CO3

dissociates, releasing H+

HCO3 is alkaline reserve of carbonic acid-

bicarbonate buffer system

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23-9 Gas Transport
Carbon Dioxide Transport (CO2)
Is generated as a by-product of aerobic metabolism
(cellular respiration)

CO2 in the bloodstream can be carried three ways

1. Converted to carbonic acid

2. Bound to hemoglobin within red blood cells

23% carbaminohemoglobin
Bound to amine groups

3. Dissolved in plasma
7% - minor player for moving between capillaries,
tissues, and alveoli
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Figure 23-22 Carbon Dioxide Transport in Blood.

CO2 diffuses 7% remains

into the dissolved in
bloodstream plasma (as CO2)

93% diffuses
into RBCs

23% binds to Hb, 70% converted to

forming H2CO3 by carbonic
carbaminohemoglobin, anhydrase
HbCO2

RBC H2CO3 dissociates

into H+ and HCO3

H+ removed
by buffers, H+
Cl
especially Hb

HCO3 moves
out of RBC in

PLASMA exchange for

Cl (chloride
shift)

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CAPILLARY TO TISSUE: CO2 PICKUP

Tissue cell Interstitial fluid
(dissolved in plasma)
Binds to
Slow plasma
proteins

Chloride
shift
Fast (in) via
transport
Carbonic protein
anhydrase

(Carbamino-
hemoglobin)
Red blood cell

(dissolved in plasma) Blood plasma

Oxygen release and carbon dioxide pickup at the tissues

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Figure 22.22b Transport and exchange of CO2 and O2.

CAPILLARY TO ALVEOLI: CO2 DROP OFF

Alveolus Fused basement membranes
(dissolved in plasma)

Slow

Chloride
shift
(out) via
Fast
transport
protein
Carbonic
anhydrase
(Carbamino-
hemoglobin)
Red blood cell

(dissolved in plasma) Blood plasma

Oxygen pickup and carbon dioxide release in the lungs

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Influence of CO2 on Blood pH

Changes in respiratory rate and depth affect

blood pH
Slow, shallow breathing increased CO2 in
blood drop in pH
Rapid, deep breathing decreased CO2 in blood
rise in pH

Changes in ventilation can adjust pH when

disturbed by metabolic factors

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Figure 23-23 A Summary of the Primary Gas Transport Mechanisms.

O2 pickup O2 delivery

Pulmonary Systemic
capillary capillary
Plasma
Red blood cell Red blood cell

Hb
Hb O2 Hb O2 O2 O2

O2 O2 Hb O2

Cells in
Alveolar O2 peripheral
air space tissues

Cl HCO3 Chloride
Alveolar
air space shift
Hb HCO3 Cl
H+ + HCO3
H+ + HCO3 Hb
Hb H+ H2CO3
H2CO3
Hb H+
CO2 CO2 CO2
H2O H2O
CO2
Hb
Hb CO2

Hb CO2 Hb CO2

Cells in
Pulmonary Systemic peripheral
capillary capillary tissues

CO2 delivery CO2 pickup

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23-10 Control of Respiration
Local Regulation of Gas Transport and Alveolar
Function
Rising PCO2 levels
Relax smooth muscle in arterioles and capillaries
and increase blood flow
Coordination of lung perfusion and alveolar
ventilation
Shifting blood flow to where O2 is
Vasodilation
PCO2 levels
Control bronchoconstriction and bronchodilation
Shift ventilation to high PCO2
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23-10 Control of Respiration

The Respiratory Centers of the Brain

Voluntary centers in cerebral cortex affect:
Respiratory centers of pons and medulla oblongata
Motor neurons that control respiratory muscles

The Respiratory Centers

Three pairs of nuclei in the reticular formation of
medulla oblongata and pons
Regulate respiratory muscles
In response to sensory information via respiratory
reflexes

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23-10 Control of Respiration
Respiratory Centers of the Medulla Oblongata
Set the pace of respiration
Dorsal Respiratory Group (DRG)
Inspiratory center
Functions in quiet and forced breathing

Ventral Respiratory Group (VRG)

Inspiratory and expiratory center
Functions only in forced breathing

Rhythmicity centers, central pattern generator

in medulla and centers in pons that are
influenced by higher and peripheral centers
essential to all breathing
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Figure 23-24a Basic Regulatory Patterns of Respiration.

a Quiet Breathing

INHALATION
(2 seconds)
Diaphragm and external
intercostal muscles
contract and inhalation
occurs.

Dorsal Dorsal
respiratory respiratory
group active group inhibited

Diaphragm and external

intercostal muscles
relax and passive
exhalation occurs.

EXHALATION
(3 seconds)
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Figure 23-24b Basic Regulatory Patterns of Respiration.

b Forced Breathing

INHALATION

Muscles of inhalation
contract, and opposing
muscles relax.
Inhalation occurs.

DRG and
DRG and
inspiratory
inspiratory center
center of VRG
of VRG are active.
are inhibited.
Expiratory center
Expiratory
of VRG is
center of VRG
inhibited.
is active.

Muscles of inhalation
relax and muscles of
exhalation contract.
Exhalation occurs.

EXHALATION
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23-10 Control of Respiration
The Apneustic and Pneumotaxic Centers of
the Pons
Paired nuclei that adjust output of respiratory
rhythmicity centers
Regulating respiratory rate and depth of respiration

Apneustic Center
Provides continuous stimulation to its DRG center
Stimulating the intensity of inhalation over 2 sec

Pneumotaxic Centers
Inhibit the apneustic centers
Promote passive or active exhalation

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23-10 Control of Respiration

Respiratory Centers and Reflex Controls

Interactions between DRG and VRG
Establish basic pace and depth of respiration

The pneumotaxic center

Modifies the pace

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Figure 23-25 Control of Respiration (Part 3 of 6).

Higher Centers
LEVEL 3

Higher centers in the hypothalamus, limbic Higher Centers

system, and cerebral cortex can alter the Cerebral cortex
activity of the pneumotaxic centers, but Limbic system
essentially normal respiratory cycles Hypothalamus
continue even if the brain stem superior to
the pons has been severely damaged.

Apneustic and
LEVEL 2

The pneumotaxic centers inhibit the apneustic centers and

Pneumotaxic Centers promote passive or active exhalation. An increase in
The apneustic (ap-N-stik) centers pneumotaxic output quickens the pace of respiration by
and the pneumotaxic shortening the duration of each inhalation. A decrease in
(n-m-TAKS-ik) centers of the pneumotaxic output slows the respiratory pace but increases
pons are paired nuclei that adjust the depth of respiration, because the apneustic centers are
the output of the respiratory more active.
rhythmicity centers.

The apneustic centers promote inhalation by stimulating the

Pons
DRG. During forced breathing, the apneustic centers adjust
the degree of stimulation in response to sensory information
from N X (the vagus nerve) concerning the amount of lung
inflation.

Medulla
oblongata

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Figure 23-25 Control of Respiration (Part 4 of 6).

Pons

Respiratory
LEVEL 1

Medulla
Rhythmicity Centers oblongata

The most basic level of respiratory control To diaphragm The inspiratory center of
involves pacemaker cells in the medulla the DRG contains
oblongata. These neurons generate cycles neurons that control
of contraction and relaxation in the lower motor neurons
diaphragm. The respiratory rhythmicity To external innervating the external
centers set the pace of respiration by intercostal intercostal muscles and
adjusting the activities of these pace- muscles the diaphragm. This
makers and coordinating the activities center functions in
of additional respiratory muscles. Each every respiratory cycle.
rhythmicity center can be subdivided into
a dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and a
ventral respiratory group (VRG). The
DRG is mainly concerned with inspiration To accessory The VRG has inspiratory In addition to the centers in
and the VRG is primarily associated with inspiratory and expiratory centers the pons, the DRG, and the
expiration. The DRG modifies its activities muscles that function only when VRG, the pre-Btzinger
in response to input from chemoreceptors breathing demands complex in the medulla is
and baroreceptors that monitor O 2, CO 2 , To accessory increase and accessory essential to all forms of
and pH in the blood and CSF and from expiratory muscles become breathing. Its mechanisms
stretch receptors that monitor the degree muscles involved. are poorly understood.
of stretching in the walls of the lungs.

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23-10 Control of Respiration

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Disrupts normal respiratory reflex pattern
May result from connection problems between
pacemaker complex and respiratory centers

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23-10 Control of Respiration
Respiratory Reflexes
Chemoreceptors are sensitive to PCO2, PO2, or pH of
blood or cerebrospinal fluid

Baroreceptors in aortic or carotid sinuses are

sensitive to changes in blood pressure
Blood pressure falls respiration increases

Stretch receptors respond to changes in lung volume

Irritating stimuli in nasal cavity, larynx, or bronchial tree

Other sensations including pain, changes in body

temperature, abnormal visceral sensations

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23-10 Control of Respiration
The Chemoreceptor Stimulation
Leads to increased depth and rate of respiration
Central chemoreceptors monitor cerebrospinal
fluid
On ventrolateral surface of medulla oblongata
Respond to PCO and pH of CSF
2

From carotid bodies

Stimulated by changes in blood pH or PO
2

From aortic bodies

Stimulated by changes in blood pH or PO
2

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Figure 23-26a The Chemoreceptor Response to Changes in PCO2.

Stimulation Stimulation of
of arterial respiratory muscles
chemoreceptors

Increased Increased PCO2, Stimulation of CSF

arterial PCO2 decreased pH chemoreceptors at
in CSF medulla oblongata

a An increase in arterial PCO2 HOMEOSTASIS Increased respiratory

stimulates chemoreceptors DISTURBED rate with increased
that accelerate breathing elimination of CO2 at
cycles at the inspiratory center. Increased alveoli
This change increases the arterial PCO2
respiratory rate, encourages (hypercapnia)
CO2 loss at the lungs, and
decreases arterial PCO2.

HOMEOSTASIS
HOMEOSTASIS RESTORED
Start
Normal Normal
arterial PCO2 arterial PCO2

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Figure 23-26b The Chemoreceptor Response to Changes in PCO2.

HOMEOSTASIS
HOMEOSTASIS
RESTORED
Start
Normal Normal
arterial PCO2 arterial PCO2

b A decrease in arterial PCO2

inhibits these chemoreceptors.
Without stimulation, the rate of HOMEOSTASIS
respiration decreases, slowing DISTURBED
Decreased respiratory
the rate of CO2 loss at the rate with decreased
Decreased
lungs, and increasing arterial elimination of CO2 at
arterial PCO2
PCO2. alveoli
(hypocapnia)

Decreased Decreased PCO2,

arterial PCO2 Decreased stimulation
increased pH
of CSF chemoreceptors
in CSF

Inhibition of arterial Inhibition of

chemoreceptors respiratory muscles

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23-10 Control of Respiration
The HeringBreuer Reflexes
Two baroreceptor reflexes involved in forced
breathing
1. Inflation reflex
Prevents overexpansion of lungs

2. Deflation reflex
Inhibits expiratory centers
Stimulates inspiratory centers during lung deflation

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23-10 Control of Respiration

Apnea
A period of suspended respiration
Normally followed by explosive exhalation to clear
airways
Sneezing and coughing
Laryngeal Spasm
Temporarily closes airway
To prevent foreign substances from entering

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23-10 Control of Respiration

Changes in the Respiratory System at Birth

Before birth
Pulmonary vessels are collapsed
Lungs contain no air
During delivery
Placental connection is lost
Blood PO2 falls
PCO2 rises

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23-10 Control of Respiration

Changes in the Respiratory System at Birth

At birth
Newborn overcomes force of surface tension to
inflate bronchial tree and alveoli and take first
breath

Large drop in pressure at first breath

Pulls blood into pulmonary circulation
Closing foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus
Redirecting fetal blood circulation patterns

Subsequent breaths fully inflate alveoli

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23-11 Effects of Aging on the Respiratory
System
Three Effects of Aging on the Respiratory System
1. Elastic tissues deteriorate
Altering lung compliance and lowering vital
capacity
2. Arthritic changes
Restrict chest movements
Limit respiratory minute volume
3. Emphysema
Affects individuals over age 50
Depending on exposure to respiratory irritants
(e.g., cigarette smoke)

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Figure 23-27 Decline in Respiratory Performance with Age and Smoking.

100
Never smoked
Regular
Respiratory performance

smoker
(% of value at age 25)

75
Stopped
at age 45

50

Disability
25 Stopped
at age 65
Death
0
25 50 75
Age (years)
2015 Pearson Education, Inc.
2015 Pearson Education, Inc.