Peripheral chemoreceptor 529884 191047229 2008-02-13T02:05:42Z Bilgutay 6401256 '''Peripheral chemoreceptors''' are specialized [[cell (biology)|cells]] located in the [[carotid body|carotid]] and [[aortic body|aortic bodies]] that measure the concentrations of various chemicals in the blood and convey the information to the [[brain]] to help regulate [[homeostasis]]. These rapid-response sensors respond to the decreased arterial [[partial pressure]] of [[oxygen]], increased partial pressure of [[carbon dioxide]] and increase in [[acidity]] of the [[blood]]. Chemostimuli lead to [[depolarization]] of excitable cells, transmitter release, and increased nerve traffic to the [[brainstem]]. The cellular mechanisms are still uncertain. {{medical-stub}} {{biochem-stub}} [[Category:Sensory receptors]]