Lungreceptorer

Lungreceptorer are specialized sensory structures located within the lungs that play a crucial role in the regulation of breathing and lung function. These receptors are primarily chemoreceptors and mechanoreceptors, each detecting different stimuli to inform the respiratory control center in the brainstem.

Chemoreceptors, both central and peripheral, are vital for monitoring blood gas levels. Central chemoreceptors, found in the brainstem, are highly sensitive to changes in carbon dioxide and hydrogen ion concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid. Peripheral chemoreceptors, located in the carotid and aortic bodies, primarily detect low oxygen levels in the blood, as well as significant changes in carbon dioxide and pH.

Mechanoreceptors, such as stretch receptors, are embedded in the smooth muscle of the airways. They respond to the mechanical forces of lung inflation and deflation, contributing to the control of tidal volume and preventing overinflation through the Hering-Breuer reflex. Other mechanoreceptors include irritant receptors, which are stimulated by inhaled irritants like dust or smoke, triggering protective reflexes such as coughing or bronchoconstriction.

The information gathered by these lungreceptorer is transmitted via afferent nerve pathways, primarily the vagus nerve, to the respiratory centers in the brainstem. These centers then adjust breathing rate and depth to maintain homeostasis of blood gases and protect the delicate lung tissue. Dysregulation or damage to lungreceptorer can lead to various respiratory disorders.