Peripheral chemoreceptors are more sensitive to changes in CO₂ than to changes in O₂.

Understand the Problem

The question states a fact about peripheral chemoreceptors, indicating their sensitivity levels to CO₂ and O₂ changes. It implies a need to explore the physiological mechanisms underlying this sensitivity.

More Information

Peripheral chemoreceptors, located in the carotid and aortic bodies, are primarily responsible for detecting changes in blood oxygen levels. They play a critical role in regulating respiratory drive, especially under low oxygen conditions.

Tips

It's common to confuse the function of peripheral chemoreceptors with central chemoreceptors, which are more sensitive to CO2 and pH changes.

Sources

• Chemoreceptor Reflex - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics - sciencedirect.com