Glossary termPhysiology

Chemoreceptors

Sensors that monitor blood chemistry to regulate breathing. Central chemoreceptors watch CO₂ and pH; peripheral ones watch oxygen.

Central chemoreceptors respond strongly to changes related to CO₂ and pH. Peripheral chemoreceptors respond to oxygen as well as CO₂ and pH. The brain integrates these with mechanical, metabolic, and higher-brain signals to regulate ventilation.

See also