摘要: Recent studies have provided evidence that the human circadian timing system has an influence on respiration and respiratory control. Both sleep mechanisms combine to mediate rise in lower airway resistance nocturnal asthma. In rats, rhythms minute ventilation are present both wakefulness sleep, implying also control of breathing. The causes a increase chemoreflex threshold it is suggested this may propensity for apnea. This hypothesis supported by model analysis control, relevant published data reviewed. clinical implications putative contribution apnea potentially very significant, but scarce directions future research discussed.