Abstract
An in vitro brainstem-spinal cord preparation of the newborn rat was used to examine the effects of neurotransmitters and transmitter candidates on respiratory frequency. Spontaneous periodic depolarization of the spinal ventral roots of the 4th or 5th cervical segment was observed at a frequency of 5-15 min-1 constantly for more than 5 h. The frequency of this depolarization was monitored as an index of the respiratory frequency. An elevation of the concentration of Ca2+ or Mg2+ caused a decrease in the respiratory frequency, whereas an elevation of K+ concentration caused an increase. The frequency was also increased by a reduction of pH. The highest frequency was observed at 27-28 degrees C. Dopamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, histamine, acetylcholine, glutamic acid, substance P, and thyrotropin releasing hormone accelerated the respiratory frequency when applied by perfusion to the brainstem, whereas noradrenaline, gamma-aminobutyric acid, glycine, and [Met5] enkephalin and [Leu5] enkephalin slowed the frequency. Experiments with antagonists suggested that the stimulant effect of acetylcholine on respiratory frequency was mediated mainly by muscarinic receptors and the depressant effect of noradrenaline was mediated by alpha-adrenoceptors.