Arterial stretch receptors, also known as baroreceptors or pressoreceptors, are specialized sensory receptors located in the walls of certain arteries, especially in the carotid sinuses and aortic arch. These receptors play a vital role in regulating blood pressure and maintaining equilibrium within the cardiovascular system.
When the arterial walls undergo a mechanical stretch due to changes in blood pressure, the stretch receptors are stimulated and send signals to the brain, specifically the medulla oblongata. The medulla then processes these signals and initiates appropriate responses to maintain blood pressure within a normal range.
The main function of arterial stretch receptors is to detect changes in blood pressure and transmit this information to the brain for processing. If blood pressure increases, the stretch receptors will sense the increased stretch in the arterial walls and send inhibitory signals to the cardiovascular center in the medulla, triggering a decrease in sympathetic nerve activity and an increase in parasympathetic nerve activity. These responses ultimately lead to a decrease in heart rate and vasodilation, which work to lower blood pressure.
Conversely, if blood pressure decreases, the reduced stretch in the arterial walls will result in increased sympathetic nerve activity and decreased parasympathetic nerve activity. This ultimately leads to an increase in heart rate and vasoconstriction, thereby raising blood pressure back to normal levels.
In summary, arterial stretch receptors are specialized sensory receptors present in certain arteries that detect changes in blood pressure and help regulate and maintain blood pressure within a normal range.
