Journal of Applied Physiology Journal of Applied Physiology
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J Appl Physiol 104: 1818-1827, 2008. First published April 10, 2008; doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.01192.2007
8750-7587/08 $8.00
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INVITED REVIEW

HIGHLIGHTED TOPIC
Neural Control of Perinatal Respiration

Key aspects of phrenic motoneuron and diaphragm muscle development during the perinatal period

Carlos B. Mantilla and Gary C. Sieck

Departments of Anesthesiology and of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

At the time of birth, respiratory muscles must be activated to sustain ventilation. The perinatal development of respiratory motor units (comprising an individual motoneuron and the muscle fibers it innervates) shows remarkable features that enable mammals to transition from in utero conditions to the air environment in which the remainder of their life will occur. In addition, significant postnatal maturation is necessary to provide for the range of motor behaviors necessary during breathing, swallowing, and speech. As the main inspiratory muscle, the diaphragm muscle (and the phrenic motoneurons that innervate it) plays a key role in accomplishing these behaviors. Considerable diversity exists across diaphragm motor units, but the determinant factors for this diversity are unknown. In recent years, the mechanisms underlying the development of respiratory motor units have received great attention, and this knowledge may provide the opportunity to design appropriate interventions for the treatment of respiratory disease not only in the perinatal period but likely also in the adult.

respiration; breathing; diaphragm muscle; motor unit


Address for reprint requests and other correspondence: C. B. Mantilla, Dept. of Anesthesiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905 (e-mail: mantilla.carlos{at}mayo.edu)






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