Central chemoreceptors

Central chemoreceptors are specialized cells located in the brain that monitor the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and pH in the blood. When CO2 levels rise, the pH of the blood drops, signaling the body that it needs to increase breathing to expel more CO2. This process helps maintain the proper balance of gases in the body, crucial for healthy functioning. Essentially, central chemoreceptors act as sensors to ensure our breathing adjusts automatically in response to changes in our blood chemistry, supporting overall respiratory health.