Where are central chemoreceptors located in the body?

Central chemoreceptors are located in the medulla oblongata, which is a part of the brainstem. These chemoreceptors play a crucial role in regulating respiratory function by sensing changes in the pH of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which reflects the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. When CO2 levels rise, it leads to a decrease in pH, stimulating the chemoreceptors to signal the respiratory centers in the brain to adjust breathing rates. This response is vital for maintaining homeostasis in the body's acid-base balance.

The medulla oblongata's strategic location allows it to monitor the chemical composition of the CSF effectively, making it the primary site for central chemoreception. Other areas mentioned, such as the cerebral cortex, pons, and thalamus, do play important roles in various functions, including higher cognitive processes or reflexive control of breathing, but they are not the primary sites for central chemoreceptor activity.