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Respiratory Control

Meaning

Respiratory Control refers to the complex, integrated neurophysiological system that automatically regulates the rate, rhythm, and depth of breathing to precisely maintain optimal blood gas homeostasis, specifically the partial pressures of oxygen and carbon dioxide. This essential, involuntary process is centrally managed by the brainstem’s respiratory centers, with constant fine-tuning from peripheral and central chemoreceptors. The sensitivity of this control system is notably influenced by circulating hormonal levels, especially sex steroids and thyroid hormones.