Central pattern generators (CPGs) generate the rhythmic and coordinated neural features necessary for the proper conduction of complex behaviors. In particular, CPGs are crucial for complex motor behaviors such as locomotion, mastication, respiration, and vocal production. While the importance of these networks in modulating behavior is evident, the mechanisms driving these CPGs are still not fully understood. On the other hand, accumulating evidence suggests that astrocytes have a significant role in regulating the function of some of these CPGs. Here, we review the location, function, and role of astrocytes in locomotion, respiration, and mastication CPGs and propose that, similarly, astrocytes may also play a significant role in the vocalization CPG.

The respiratory system maintains homeostatic levels of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the body through rapid and efficient regulation of frequency and dept (tidal volume) of breathing. The use of common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a New World non-human primate (NHP) model, in neuroscience is increasing, however, the data on their breathing is limited and their respiratory behaviors have yet to be characterized. Using Whole-body Plethysmography in room air as well as in hypoxic (low O2) and hypercapnic (high CO2) conditions, we sought to define breathing behaviors in an awake, freely behaving marmosets. Additionally, we instituted and optimized an analysis toolkit for unsupervised analysis of the respiratory activities in common marmoset. Our findings indicate that marmoset’s exposure to hypoxia decreased metabolic rate and increased sigh rate. However, the hypoxic condition did not augment the ventilatory response as reported in other animals. Hypercapnia, on the other hand, increased both the frequency and tidal volume as expected. In this study, we shed light on the breathing behaviors of common marmosets in a variety of O2 and CO2 conditions to further understand the breathing behaviors in NHPs.

The respiratory system maintains homeostatic levels of oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the body through rapid and efficient regulation of breathing frequency and depth (tidal volume). The commonly used methods of analysing breathing data in behaving experimental animals are usually subjective, laborious, and time-consuming. To overcome these hurdles, we optimized an analysis toolkit for the unsupervised study of respiratory activities in animal subjects. Using this tool, we analyzed breathing behaviors of the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus), a New World non-human primate model. Using Whole-body Plethysmography in room air as well as acute hypoxic (10% O2) and hypercapnic (6% CO2) conditions, we describe breathing behaviors in awake, freely behaving marmosets. Our data indicate that marmosets' exposure to acute hypoxia decreased metabolic rate and increased sigh rate. However, the hypoxic condition did not augment ventilation. Hypercapnia, on the other hand, increased both the frequency and depth (i.e., tidal volume) of breathing.

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