Question

Stretch receptors in the lungs send a signal to the inspiratory center of the medulla, inhibiting its stimulation of the phrenic and intercostal nerves. This is called the ________ reflex.

A) Cushing's

B) Hering-Breuer

C) Moro

D) Cheyne-Stokes

Answer 1

The reflex where stretch receptors in the lungs inhibit the inspiratory center's stimulation of the phrenic and intercostal nerves is called the Hering-Breuer reflex, which helps regulate breathing rhythm and prevents lung over-inflation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The reflex you're asking about, where stretch receptors in the lungs send a signal to the inspiratory center of the medulla, inhibiting its stimulation of the phrenic and intercostal nerves, is called the Hering-Breuer reflex. This reflex is part of the body's mechanism to regulate the rhythm of breathing and prevent over-inflation of the lungs. When the lungs expand during inspiration, stretch receptors within the lungs' airway walls get activated.

These receptors then send inhibitory signals to the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) in the medulla oblongata, leading to a reduction in the respiratory rate. This is part of the autonomic nervous system control over pulmonary ventilation.