How does the Hering-Breuer reflex respond when the lungs inflate?

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Medical illustration of the human chest showing the lungs, diaphragm, ribs, trachea, bronchus, and bronchioles, with one lung cut away to reveal internal structures. — human respiratory system The lungs serve as the gas-exchanging organ for the process of respiration.

The Hering-Breuer reflex is triggered when the lungs inflate, which excites stretch receptors located in the airways. These receptors send signals to the medulla via the vagus nerve.1

As tidal volume increases, the stimulation of these receptors shortens inspiratory time, thereby accelerating the frequency of breathing. Conversely, if lung inflation is prevented, the reflex allows for a longer inspiratory time to help maintain tidal volume.1