Question

The respiratory receptors of the brain receive input from __________.

a) central chemoreceptors
b) peripheral chemoreceptors
c) irritant receptors
d) pulmonary stretch receptors
e) Answers a and d are correct.
f) All of the above are correct.

Answer 1

The respiratory receptors of the brain receive input from a combination of central chemoreceptors, peripheral chemoreceptors, irritant receptors, and pulmonary stretch receptors; thus, all of the listed options are correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

The respiratory receptors of the brain receive input from central chemoreceptors, peripheral chemoreceptors, irritant receptors, and pulmonary stretch receptors. Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is f) All of the above are correct.

Central chemoreceptors are located in the brain and are mostly sensitive to changes in carbon dioxide (CO2) and pH levels in the blood. When CO2 levels rise, it diffuses across the blood-brain barrier, causing an increase in hydrogen ions, which decreases pH and stimulates these chemoreceptors.

Peripheral chemoreceptors are found in the carotid arteries and aortic arch and respond primarily to significant changes in blood oxygen (O2) levels, typically when they drop below about 60 mm Hg. However, they are also sensitive to changes in CO2 levels and pH.

Irritant receptors and pulmonary stretch receptors also play roles in respiratory regulation by responding to irritants in the airway and changes in lung inflation, respectively.