chemoreceptors
Chemoreceptors are specialized sensory cells that detect chemical changes in the environment. They play a crucial role in various biological processes by responding to specific molecules, such as oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels. These receptors are found in different parts of the body, including the nose for smell and the tongue for taste, as well as in the blood vessels to monitor gas levels.
In addition to their role in the senses, chemoreceptors are vital for maintaining homeostasis. For example, they help regulate breathing by sensing changes in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. This information is relayed to the brain, which adjusts respiratory rates to ensure the body receives adequate oxygen and expels carbon dioxide.