Baroreflex
Baroreflex
Baroreflex (pronounced: /ˈbæroʊˌriːfleks/), also known as the baroreceptor reflex, is a rapid negative feedback loop in which an elevated blood pressure causes the heart rate to decrease and subsequently lowers the blood pressure.
Etymology
The term "baroreflex" is derived from the Greek word "baros," which means weight, and the Latin word "reflexus," which means reflection or turning back.
Function
The baroreceptors in the carotid sinus and aortic arch are responsible for sensing changes in blood pressure. When these receptors detect an increase in blood pressure, they send signals to the brainstem, which then triggers a response to lower the heart rate, thus reducing the blood pressure. Conversely, if the blood pressure drops too low, the baroreflex mechanism works to increase the heart rate to raise the blood pressure.
Related Terms
- Baroreceptors: These are specialized neurons that detect changes in blood pressure.
- Carotid sinus: This is a dilated area at the base of the internal carotid artery that contains baroreceptors.
- Aortic arch: This is the part of the aorta that bends between the ascending and descending aorta and contains baroreceptors.
- Brainstem: This is the posterior part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord and plays a crucial role in regulating heart rate and blood pressure.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Baroreflex
- Wikipedia's article - Baroreflex
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