PI3K and MEK1/2 molecular pathways are involved in the erythropoietin-mediated regulation of the central respiratory command.

•Mice overexpressing erythropoietin (Epo) in the brain are studied.•The impact of Epo on neonatal central respiratory control is assessed.•MEK1/2 or PI3K is necessary for hypoxia-induced rhythm depression.•MEK1/2 or PI3K inhibition does not induce control phenotype in Tg21 brainstems.