Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

Which structure in the brain contains the respiratory control center?

1. Cerebrum

2. Medulla

3. Pons

4. Cerebellum

The correct answer is: Medulla

The medulla oblongata is the structure in the brain that contains the respiratory control center. This part of the brain stem is crucial for autonomic functions and plays a vital role in regulating breathing by monitoring carbon dioxide levels in the blood and adjusting the respiratory rate accordingly. The medulla also integrates sensory information related to respiration and coordinates the muscle movements involved in breathing, such as those of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. In addition to the medulla, the pons also contributes to the regulation of respiration by providing input and fine-tuning the breathing rhythm established by the medulla. However, the primary respiratory control center resides within the medulla. The cerebrum is primarily responsible for higher-order brain functions such as thought, emotion, and sensory processing, while the cerebellum is mainly involved in coordination and balance, not in the control of respiration. Thus, the medulla is the correct answer regarding the location of the respiratory control center in the brain.