How does pCO2 and pH influence ventilation?

O2 and H+ directly influence the respiratory centre. Peripheral H+ ions do not readily pass the blood-brain barrier H+ ions are produced when blood CO2 is elevated – CO2 +H20  H2CO3 H++ HCO3- Respiratory activity strongly influenced by fluctuations in CO2. PCO2 increased during periods of exertion or hypoventilation but is rapidly controlled via changes in VA.