The respiratory reactions to microinjections of GABA and penicillin into the dorsal respiratory group in rats

In adult anaesthetized rats the breathing reactions to microinjections of GABA (10 -5 M) and penicillin (10-7 M) into the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) were investigated. It was shown, that GABA microinjections into the DRG shortened inspiratory and expiratory time and increased respiratory frequency, under this conditions the tidal volume and ventilation were decreased. Аdministrations of GABAA-receptors blocator penicillin into the DRG inhibited respiratory rhythm due to inspiratory time prolongations, while expiratory phase was not changed essentially, and reduced the depth of breathing. It is suggested that the reactions observed demonstrate the various contribution of GABAergic mechanisms, including GABA A-receptors within DRG, in control of the temporal and volumetric parameters of breathing pattern.