Aortic bodies are small clusters of chemoreceptor cells located near the aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. They play a crucial role in monitoring the levels of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. When these levels change, the aortic bodies send signals to the brain to help regulate breathing and maintain proper blood gas levels. These structures are part of the body's response system to ensure that tissues receive enough oxygen. They work alongside other chemoreceptors, such as the carotid bodies, which are located in the neck, to provide a comprehensive assessment of blood chemistry.