The centers in the pons that modify the activity of the respiratory rhythmicity centers in the medulla oblongata are the:
(a) Apneustic and pneumotaxic centers
(b) Inferior and superior peduncles
(c) Cardiac and vasomotor centers
(d) Gracile nucleus and cuneate nucleus

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the pons in respiratory control. The pons contains centers that influence the basic rhythm of breathing generated by the medulla oblongata.
2. Step 2: Identify the respiratory centers located in the pons. These centers are known to modify the rate and depth of breathing by interacting with the medullary respiratory rhythmicity centers.
3. Step 3: Recall the names of the specific centers in the pons involved in respiratory modulation. These are the apneustic center, which promotes inhalation, and the pneumotaxic center, which inhibits inhalation to regulate breathing rate.
4. Step 4: Compare the given options with the known respiratory centers. The apneustic and pneumotaxic centers correspond to the respiratory-modifying centers in the pons.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the correct answer is the option listing the apneustic and pneumotaxic centers, as these are the centers in the pons that modify the activity of the respiratory rhythmicity centers in the medulla oblongata.

Key Concepts

Respiratory Rhythmicity Centers in the Medulla Oblongata

These centers in the medulla oblongata generate the basic rhythm of breathing by controlling the rate and depth of respiration. They include the dorsal and ventral respiratory groups, which coordinate inhalation and exhalation. Understanding their function is essential to grasp how breathing is regulated neurologically.

Apneustic and Pneumotaxic Centers in the Pons

Located in the pons, these centers modulate the activity of the medullary respiratory centers. The apneustic center promotes deep, prolonged inhalation, while the pneumotaxic center inhibits inspiration to regulate the breathing rate. Together, they fine-tune respiratory rhythm and prevent over-inflation of the lungs.

Other Brainstem Centers and Their Functions

The brainstem contains various centers like the cardiac and vasomotor centers (regulating heart rate and blood pressure), inferior and superior peduncles (fiber tracts connecting brain regions), and sensory nuclei such as gracile and cuneate nuclei. Recognizing these helps differentiate their roles from respiratory control.