The evolutionary origin of the mammalian diaphragm

Steven F. Perry, Thomas Similowski, Wilfried Klein, Jonathan R. Codd

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The comparatively low compliance of the mammalian lung results in an evolutionary dilemma: the origin and evolution of this bronchoalveolar lung into a high-performance gas-exchange organ results in a high work of breathing that cannot be achieved without the coupled evolution of a muscular diaphragm. However, despite over 400 years of research into respiratory biology, the origin of this exclusively mammalian structure remains elusive. Here we examine the basic structure of the body wall muscles in vertebrates and discuss the mechanics of costal breathing and functional significance of accessory breathing muscles in non-mammalian amniotes. We then critically examine the mammalian diaphragm and compare hypotheses on its ontogenetic and phylogenetic origin. A closer look at the structure and function across various mammalian groups reveals the evolutionary significance of collateral functions of the diaphragm as a visceral organizer and its role in producing high intra-abdominal pressure. © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)1-16
    Number of pages15
    JournalRespiratory Physiology and Neurobiology
    Volume171
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 15 Apr 2010

    Keywords

    • Breathing mechanics
    • Diaphragm
    • Lung
    • Mammal

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