Nonlinear neural network dynamics in the mammalian respiratory oscillator

Abstract

We have analyzed patterns of neural activity in the network responsible for generating respiratory rhythm in mammals. This network produces a limit cycle oscillation in standard conditions in vitro. As network excitability increases the system develops periodic modulation and exhibits mixed-mode oscillations, quasiperiodicity, and disorganized aperiodic activity. We also observed these deterministic breathing patterns during spontaneous breathing in neonatal rodents and human infants in vivo. These results demonstrate that nonlinear network dynamics in the brain can influence rhythmic motor behavior.