Parafacial zone

Parafacial Zone

The Parafacial Zone (also known as the Parafacial Respiratory Group) is a region in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in the control of respiration. It is located in the retrotrapezoid nucleus and the parafacial nucleus, adjacent to the facial nucleus in the medulla oblongata.

Anatomy

The Parafacial Zone is situated in the ventrolateral medulla, near the facial nerve nucleus. It is composed of neurons that are sensitive to changes in the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and pH in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. These neurons are known as chemosensitive neurons.

Function

The primary function of the Parafacial Zone is to regulate breathing. It does this by monitoring the levels of CO2 and pH in the body. When these levels rise, indicating that the body is not getting enough oxygen, the Parafacial Zone sends signals to the respiratory muscles to increase the rate and depth of breathing. This helps to remove excess CO2 from the body and bring the pH levels back to normal.

Clinical Significance

Disruptions in the functioning of the Parafacial Zone can lead to respiratory disorders such as sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and asthma. Research is ongoing to better understand the role of the Parafacial Zone in these conditions and to develop potential treatments.

See Also

• Respiratory System
• Medulla Oblongata
• Respiratory Muscles

External Links

• Parafacial Zone at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)