(hĕr'ĭng )

German physiologist, 1866–1948.

H.'s nerves Afferent nerve fibers leading from the carotid sinus by way of the glossopharyngeal nerve to the brain. They are pressoreceptor nerves responding to changes in blood pressure that reflexly control heart rate. An increase in pressure diminishes heart rate.

H.'s reflex Hering-Breuer reflex.

Hering-Breuer reflex A reflex inhibition of inspiration resulting from stimulation of pressoreceptors by inflation of the lungs. It is a protective mechanism against overinflation. SYN: Hering reflex; inflation reflex.