The medulla oblongata is the primary respiratory control center. Its main function is to send signals to the muscles that control respiration to cause breathing to occur. There are two regions in the medulla that control respiration: The ventral respiratory group stimulates expiratory movements.

What part of the brainstem regulates breathing?

The respiratory center is located in the medulla oblongata and is involved in the minute-to-minute control of breathing.

How is breathing regulated?

Breathing occurs due to repeated contractions of a large muscle called the diaphragm. The rate of breathing is regulated by the brain stem. It monitors the level of carbon dioxide in the blood and triggers faster or slower breathing as needed to keep the level within a narrow range.