Peripheral chemoreceptor

Peripheral chemoreceptors are a type of chemoreceptor that are primarily sensitive to changes in the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2), but also to changes in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) and pH. They are located in the carotid bodies and the aortic bodies, with the carotid bodies being the most important.

Peripheral chemoreceptors play a crucial role in the body's homeostatic mechanisms that regulate the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. They are responsible for the initial response to hypoxia (low oxygen levels), hypercapnia (high carbon dioxide levels), and acidosis (low pH).

Structure

Peripheral chemoreceptors are found in the carotid bodies, located at the bifurcation of the common carotid artery, and in the aortic bodies, located in the arch of the aorta. The carotid bodies are the primary peripheral chemoreceptors, responsible for about 75% of the response to changes in blood chemistry.

Function

Peripheral chemoreceptors are primarily sensitive to changes in the partial pressure of oxygen (PO2). When PO2 decreases, as in hypoxia, the chemoreceptors send signals to the respiratory center in the medulla oblongata of the brain, which responds by increasing the rate and depth of breathing.

Peripheral chemoreceptors are also sensitive to changes in the partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) and pH. When PCO2 increases or pH decreases, as in hypercapnia and acidosis, the chemoreceptors send signals to the respiratory center, which responds by increasing the rate and depth of breathing.

Clinical significance

Peripheral chemoreceptors play a crucial role in the body's response to various medical conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, and sleep apnea. In these conditions, the chemoreceptors may become hypersensitive, leading to increased respiratory drive and dyspnea (difficulty breathing).

See also

• Central chemoreceptors
• Respiratory system
• Cardiovascular system

References

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