Final answer:
The statement is true; the central pattern generator for breathing does contain pacemaker neurons similar to those in the heart. They are part of respiratory control centers in the medulla oblongata and the pontine respiratory group.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that research has shown that the central pattern generator for breathing contains pacemaker neurons, which are similar in function to the pacemaker cells of the heart, is true. The respiratory control centers located in the brainstem are responsible for the automatic rhythm of breathing. The medulla oblongata contains the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG). The DRG plays a critical role in the maintenance of constant breathing rhythm, whereas the VRG is crucial during forced breathing. Additionally, the pontine respiratory group, located in the pons, which comprises the apneustic and pneumotaxic centers, works in conjunction to control the rate of breathing and the depth of inspiration.