Functional modulation of retrotrapezoid neurons drives fentanyl-induced respiratory depression
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Opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) suppresses breathing and destabilizes ventilation. Using optogenetic and chemogenetic tools, we demonstrated that stimulating retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) Phox2b + / Nmb + neurons enhances breathing, even after fentanyl administration, whereas their inhibition exacerbates hypoventilation. These findings reveal that RTN neurons retain their ability to drive ventilation during OIRD, highlighting their potential as a therapeutic target to restore respiratory function in opioid overdose cases.
