Which region of the brainstem is primarily associated with central chemoreceptors?

The medulla is the region of the brainstem that is primarily associated with central chemoreceptors. These receptors are sensitive to changes in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid, which reflects the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When CO2 levels rise, it leads to an increase in hydrogen ion concentration, resulting in a decrease in pH. This change is detected by the central chemoreceptors in the medulla, prompting a respiratory response to increase ventilation, thus facilitating the removal of CO2 from the body and restoring pH balance.

The central chemoreceptors play a crucial role in the regulation of respiration by responding to metabolic changes, and their location in the medulla allows for an integrated response to maintain homeostasis in blood gas levels. Understanding the function of these chemoreceptors is key to grasping how the body regulates its acid-base balance and respiratory function.