Pneumotaxic centre which can moderate the functions of respiratory rhythm center is present in(a) Pons region of the brain(b) Thalamus(c) Spinal Cord(d) Right Cerebral hemisphere(e) Left cerebral hemisphere

The correct answer is: (a) Pons region of the brain
The pneumotaxic center is located in the pons region of the brainstem. It plays an important role in regulating the rate and pattern of breathing by moderating the activity of the respiratory rhythm center, which is located in the medulla oblongata.
The pneumotaxic center helps control the transition between inhalation and exhalation by inhibiting the inspiratory center in the medulla, thus preventing over-inflation of the lungs and regulating the speed of breathing.
Key points about the pneumotaxic center:
• It is situated in the upper pons, and its main function is to limit the duration of inspiration.
• By sending inhibitory signals to the apneustic center (also located in the pons), it helps modulate the rhythm of breathing.
• The apneustic center is responsible for stimulating the inspiratory muscles, and the balance between the pneumotaxic and apneustic centers helps maintain proper ventilation.
Why not the other options?
• (b) Thalamus: The thalamus is a relay station for sensory information and does not directly control breathing rhythms.
• (c) Spinal Cord: While the spinal cord transmits motor commands to the respiratory muscles, it does not regulate the respiratory rhythm. This regulation is done by the brainstem.
• (d) Right Cerebral hemisphere: The cerebral hemispheres are involved in higher functions like thinking, memory, and voluntary movements, not the automatic control of respiration.
• (e) Left cerebral hemisphere: Similar to the right hemisphere, the left hemisphere is not involved in regulating the respiratory rhythm.
The pneumotaxic center, which regulates the functions of the respiratory rhythm center, is located in the pons region of the brain, making (a) Pons region of the brain the correct answer.