Respiratory System 4

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from the Respiratory System lecture, including mechanisms of gas transport, chemoreceptor function, and respiratory regulation.

What are the two main ways oxygen is transported in the blood?

1. Dissolved in plasma, 2. Bound to hemoglobin to form oxyhemoglobin.

What is the function of central chemoreceptors?

They are sensitive to pCO2 and H+ levels in cerebrospinal fluid and regulate ventilation.

Where are peripheral chemoreceptors located?

In the carotid and aortic bodies.

What is the primary role of the medullary respiratory centers?

To generate the rhythm of respiration.

What happens when pCO2 levels increase in the blood?

It stimulates an increase in respiratory rate to expel excess CO2.

What is the effect of the pneumotaxic center on respiration?

It inhibits the inspiratory centers in the DRG, shortening inspiration and increasing respiratory rate.

What is acidosis in terms of blood pH?

A condition where pH is less than 7.35 due to accumulation of hydrogen ions and CO2.

What does the oxyhemoglobin saturation curve indicate?

It indicates that hemoglobin has a higher affinity for O2 at higher partial pressures of oxygen.

What responses do chemoreceptors have to hypoventilation?

They detect increased pCO2 and H+ concentration and trigger increased ventilation.

What anatomical regions are associated with respiratory regulation?

The pons and medulla in the brainstem.