Inspiratory timing differences and regulation of Gria2 gene variation: a candidate gene hypothesis.

Abstract

Individual variation in eupneic breathing pattern has been shown in human subjects and laboratory animal models. Genetic predisposition is one of several factors proposed as the basis for the variation among individuals. It is unclear, however, which genes may determine diversity in breathing pattern and by what mechanism(s) genetic factors play a role. Our laboratory has addressed these questions using variation among inbred mouse strains as genetic models of differential respiratory control mechanisms. This report summarizes a series of studies that considers the role of the Gria2 gene, which encodes an ionotropic glutamate receptor subunit, in determining strain variation in eupneic breathing pattern.