A direct excitatory action of lactate ions in the central respiratory network of bullfrogs, .

Chemoreceptors that detect O and CO/pH regulate ventilation. However, recent work shows that lactate ions activate arterial chemoreceptors independent of pH to stimulate breathing. Although lactate rises in the central nervous system (CNS) during metabolic challenges, the ability of lactate ions to enhance ventilation by directly targeting the central respiratory network remains unclear.