what area in the brain sets the respiratory rhythm
These 10 facts about space will blow your mind. The respiratory center consists of areas of the brain that are responsible for automatic control of breathing. Nerve cells in part of the lower brain stem, known as the medulla oblongata, initiate and set the rhythm of respiration. Another area of the brain stem, called the pons, contains nerve cells that affect the breathing rate. Nerve impulses travel from these areas to the respiratory muscles, causing inspiration and expiration.