Chemoreceptors

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Chemoreceptors

Chemoreceptors (/ˈkiːmoʊrɪˌsɛptər/ or /ˈkɛmoʊrɪˌsɛptər/), derived from the Greek words chemia meaning "chemical" and receptor meaning "receiver", are specialized cells that detect changes in chemical concentrations in the body's internal or external environment. They play a crucial role in the body's homeostatic mechanisms and are involved in various physiological processes such as respiration, digestion, and olfaction.

Types of Chemoreceptors

Chemoreceptors can be broadly classified into two types:

  1. Peripheral chemoreceptors: These are located in the carotid body and aortic body, and they primarily detect changes in the blood's oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels.
  2. Central chemoreceptors: These are located in the medulla oblongata of the brain and primarily respond to changes in the pH and carbon dioxide levels in the cerebrospinal fluid.

Function of Chemoreceptors

Chemoreceptors function by detecting changes in the chemical composition of the body's internal environment, such as changes in oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels. When these changes are detected, chemoreceptors send signals to the brain, which then initiates appropriate responses to restore homeostasis. For example, if the chemoreceptors detect low oxygen levels in the blood, they will signal the brain to increase the rate and depth of breathing to bring more oxygen into the body.

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