Gastrin-realising peptide – potential participant involved in the bulbar mechanisms of the regulation of breathing

In the article we review the role of gastrin-realising peptide in the respiratory control at the level of the medulla. The information concerning the distribution of this neuropeptide and its receptors expression in the functionally-specific regions of the respiratory center is presented. We also review some data about respiratory effects of related peptide – bombesin. The effects of gastrin-realising peptide microinjections into the nucleus tractus solitarii on the main parameters of breathing pattern and the activity of inspiratory muscles are presented.