The normal breathing rhythm in mammals is hypothesized to be generated by n
eurokinin-1 receptor(NK1R)-expressing neurons in the preBotzinger complex (
preBotc), a medullary region proposed to contain the kernel of the circuits
generating respiration. If this hypothesis is correct, then complete destr
uction of preBotC NK1R neurons should severely perturb and perhaps even fat
ally arrest breathing. Here we show that specific and near complete bilater
al (but not unilateral) destruction of preBotC NK1R neurons results in both
an ataxic breathing pattern with markedly altered blood gases and pH, and
pathological responses to challenges such as hyperoxia, hypoxia and anesthe
sia. Thus, these similar to 600 neurons seem necessary for the generation o
f normal breathing in rats.